Bipartisan Leaders Inspect Barrage‑Cum‑Bridge Projects Over Ib River in Sundargarh
Sanjay Pattnayak
Sundargarh, April 21, 2025 – In a rare display of cross‑party cooperation, Sri Jogesh Kumar Singh, Hon’ble MLA of Sundargarh Sadar, and Sri Bhabani Bhoi, Hon’ble Deputy Speaker of the Odisha Vidhan Sabha, jointly visited the construction sites of two pivotal in‑stream storage structures (ISSs) over the Ib River today. The projects—Kudabaga and Kopsingha—aim to bolster drinking water supply, agricultural irrigation, fish farming, and all‑weather connectivity for hundreds of villages across Sundargarh’s Sadar, Lephripada, and Tangarpali blocks.
The barrage‑cum‑bridge at Kopsingha, estimated at ₹221 crore, and its sister structure at Kudabaga, estimated at ₹186 crore, were inaugurated in January 2022 under the aegis of then Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Upon completion, the schemes are designed to:
- Provide safe drinking water to approximately 47,000 residents
- Irrigate 488 hectares of farmland
- Support local fishery development
- Facilitate reliable road connectivity across the Ib River
During the joint inspection, both leaders noted with satisfaction that roughly 75 percent of the civil works have been completed. However, progress on acquiring land for the approach roads remains pending, posing the primary hurdle to full operationalization.
“This landmark initiative will transform lives across Sadar Block and beyond,” said Sri Jogesh Kumar Singh. “While significant headway has been made on the main structures, we must expedite land acquisition to ensure the bridges serve their intended purpose without further delay.”
Echoing his sentiments, Deputy Speaker Bhoi added, “Our communities eagerly await the day when these barrages not only quench their thirst but also open new avenues for agriculture and trade. I call upon all stakeholders to resolve the remaining land issues swiftly.”
Both dignitaries lauded Superintending Engineer Maitry Parida for her sustained efforts in steering the projects. “Her leadership and technical acumen have been the cornerstone of this ambitious programme,” remarked Sri Bhoi, while Sri Singh commended her “commitment to excellence and on‑site problem solving.”
As officials prepare to fast‑track land negotiations, local residents and farmers are optimistic that, once operational, the Kopsingha and Kudabaga ISSs will mark a watershed moment in Sundargarh’s socio‑economic development.mr.Damodar Deuria SE (quality assurance division sundargarh )is involved in checking its quality and strength.
