Sambalpur: Major Boost for Sambalpur; Ayodhya Sarovar to be Developed in Mahanadi with 50 Crores Rs. from State Budget
Sambalpur: The state’s water resources department has decided to build Ayodhya Sarovar, also known as Mahanadi Anicut, in Sambalpur. Today, the state budget approved funding for this project. Cuttack and Sambalpur will receive an initial grant of ₹50 crores as part of the Riverfront Development project.
Gratitude and Local Reactions
Following the announcement, Union Education Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. Residents of Sambalpur feel pleased, viewing it as the fulfillment of their long-standing request. However, some residents question whether the authorities can complete such a large project within the current budget.
Historical Context and Current Issues
Since the Hirakud Dam was built, the Mahanadi River’s downstream flow has decreased, resulting in acute water scarcity in Sambalpur. To address this issue, the Anicut was built and later renamed Ayodhya Sarovar. Despite structural damage repairs in 2022, the state’s decision to develop it permanently aims to ensure the Mahanadi’s water level remains stable.
Online Sambalpur Is Now On WhatsApp!
Join us for the latest news updates delivered directly to your WhatsApp.
Subscribe Us On YouTube!
Join us for the latest news updates and video content delivered directly to you.
Planning & Implementation
The state government has directed the Sambalpur water resources department to submit a survey report for the development of the Ayodhya Sarovar. The recent transformation of the Ma’ Samalei project and the start of Mahanadi Aarti in January highlight ongoing efforts to improve the riverfront, including the Samalei Ghat. This project promises to not only raise the water level at Samalei Ghat, but also permanently address the city’s water scarcity issues while improving its beauty.
Future Prospects and Challenges
The authorities will consider the elevation, potential impact on other areas, and the number of families they may displace when developing Ayodhya Sarovar’s plan. Officials proposed bridge and barrage construction in the area in 2014 and 2019, estimating costs of ₹43 crores and ₹45 crores, respectively, but they took no action. As a result, there is some doubt about whether this project will move forward or remain an unfulfilled promise.
Community Concerns
After ten years of no progress on similar proposals, residents are wondering if the government will finally take action or if this project, like others, will remain in limbo. The state’s decision is significant, but the community eagerly awaits the implementation of these plans to see real change.
