Koraput: In a push to rural infrastructure, panchayati raj and drinking water minister Rabi Narayan Naik on Wednesday inaugurated a mega drinking water supply project aimed at ensuring safe and reliable water access to 100 villages in Nabarangpur district.The project, covering 22 gram panchayats under Tentulikhunti and Nandahandi blocks, has been developed at an estimated cost of Rs 149.39 crore and is expected to benefit as many as 38,609 families.Addressing the gathering, the minister said, “Ensuring safe drinking water to every household remains a top priority. This project will significantly improve the quality of life in rural areas. The govt is committed to transforming Nabarangpur into a model district through sustained infrastructure development.”During his visit, Naik also laid foundation stones and inaugurated a series of development works under multiple schemes, including the Chief Minister’s Road Scheme, Setubandha Yojana and Bikashita Gaon Bikashita Odisha programme.As part of the rural development department’s initiatives, he laid the foundation for 32 roads and four bridges to be built at an estimated cost of Rs 267.27 crore. In addition, 718 projects worth Rs 29.11 crore were launched under the panchayati raj department.Highlighting the broader development agenda, the minister said, “Strengthening infrastructure, improving road connectivity, expanding housing schemes, establishing a medical college, enhancing railway connectivity, promoting tourism, constructing stadiums in every block, and ensuring healthcare services under Ayushman Bharat are among top priorities of the state govt for Nabarangpur district.”
