Odisha secures 3rd rank nationally for PMGSY execution, connecting 16,990 habitations. Learn about the innovative Bandhara Model for rural roads and water conservation
OdishaPlus Bureau
Odisha has been nationally acknowledged by the Ministry of Rural Development for its exemplary execution of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and for enhancing rural connectivity throughout the state.
The accolade was awarded during the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of PMGSY, which took place in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, on Sunday. Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav attended the event.
The state has achieved the third rank nationally in the category of delivering road connectivity to the greatest number of habitations under PMGSY. The state government has successfully linked 16,990 habitations via rural roads under this initiative.
In the same vein, within the category encompassing North-Eastern states, Union Territories, and mountainous regions, Odisha secured the third position by establishing road connectivity to 2,132 habitations situated in hilly areas.
Odisha presented its innovative ‘Bandhara Model’ at the Engineering and Technology Model exhibition during the event. This bridge-cum-weir model combines rural connectivity with water conservation and has been acknowledged as a sustainable development initiative.
The model facilitates the regulation of water flow in seasonal rivers through check-dam mechanisms, promoting groundwater recharge and ensuring the availability of water for drinking and irrigation during the summer months.
State Rural Development Minister Rabi Narayan Naik stated that the national recognition signifies Odisha’s robust commitment and ongoing efforts towards rural development. He emphasized that the state government intends to further enhance the rural connectivity mission in the forthcoming years.