Bhubaneswar: In an innovative effort, the Rural Development Department is implementing a project called Bridge-cum-Bandhara to enhance rural connectivity, improve water availability, and strengthen the rural economy and livelihoods.
The Bridge-cum-Bandhara projects, constructed across various locations in the State by the Department are proving beneficial for the State’s holistic development.
From June 2024 to November 2024, 18 such projects have been completed, with 71 more approved for future implementation, officials said.
These projects serve multiple purposes. In addition to facilitating transportation, they aid in water conservation, increasing groundwater levels. The stored water can be used for irrigation, drinking, and providing water for livestock and other animals, they said.
Additionally, these projects help recharge groundwater, regulate temperature, and prevent soil erosion in surrounding areas.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has highlighted the construction of Bridge-cum-weirs as an environmentally friendly initiative.
He said that the government is prioritizing water conservation through the construction of check dams and bridge-cum-weirs on small bridges with raft foundations. These structures will ensure water conservation, irrigation, drinking water for livestock, and groundwater recharge, he said.
Such projects have been constructed on the Phatatangar Nallah on the Chandrapur-Kulkuta road in Sundargarh district, the Balarampur Nallah on the Rengali-Kulumanialu road in Angul district, the Kudutuli-Damerikiya road in Kandhamal district, and a local Nallah on the JharasahiNaktimal road in Deogarh district.
These Bridge-cum-Bandhara projects are significantly contributing to the multifaceted development of these regions. By providing connectivity, water conservation, groundwater recharge, irrigation, and drinking water, the Bridge-cum-Bandhara projects are poised to drive holistic development in rural areas, the officials said.