Bhubaneswar, 06 July (H.S.): In view of the upcoming Rath Yatra and the expected arrival of lakhs of devotees in Puri, Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra today conducted a comprehensive review of drinking water supply arrangements and inspected the ongoing construction of the 42 MLD Water Treatment Plant in the city.
During the visit, the Minister held a high-level review meeting with senior officials to assess preparedness for ensuring uninterrupted supply of safe and clean drinking water throughout the festival period. WATCO Managing Director Debabrata Mohanty, along with senior engineers and departmental officials, briefed him on the progress of ongoing works and special arrangements planned for Rath Yatra.
The Minister carried out a detailed field inspection of the 42 MLD Water Treatment Plant, reviewing major components such as the clarifier, filtration unit, equipment installation, and allied infrastructure. He stressed the importance of the project in meeting both current and future water demands of Puri city.
He directed executing agencies to accelerate the pace of work while strictly maintaining quality standards. “Given the massive influx of devotees during Rath Yatra, ensuring uninterrupted supply of safe drinking water is our top priority. All agencies must remain fully prepared to handle any contingency,” the Minister said.
Dr. Mahapatra reviewed drinking water arrangements being made in and around the Shree Jagannath Temple, pilgrim accommodations, temporary camps, and other key locations across the city. He instructed officials to ensure round-the-clock water supply during the festival period.
He further directed continuous monitoring of the water distribution network and emphasized keeping standby pumps, power backup systems, and emergency response mechanisms in readiness.
As part of contingency planning, WATCO has deployed mobile water tankers, temporary water distribution points, and emergency response teams to address any possible disruption in supply. A dedicated control room will function 24x7 throughout the Rath Yatra to ensure quick grievance redressal and uninterrupted service delivery.
Reiterating the state government’s commitment to efficient civic management during major festivals, the Minister said that the Housing and Urban Development Department and WATCO are fully prepared to ensure smooth and safe conduct of Rath Yatra.
He also instructed that the Water Treatment Plant project must be completed within the stipulated timeline without any compromise on quality, warning that any negligence or deviation from standards would be dealt with strictly.
