The Gangadhar Meher Lift Irrigation Project is transforming agriculture in Odisha, providing irrigation to over 25,000 hectares of farmland across 130 villages in Bargarh and Sonepur districts. MEIL is executing this project to support sustainable agriculture and enhance crop productivity in the region.
Water for the project is sourced from the Hirakud Dam, the world’s longest earthen dam, and is delivered via a 20-kilometre pipeline with a 4 metre diameter. Two pump houses at Turunga and Kanapali have been constructed to facilitate water lifting and transportation.
To ensure water distribution, an extensive pipeline network spanning over 3,000 kilometres has been laid. An advanced drip irrigation system covers approximately 7,500 hectares of the project area. This approach ensures efficient water usage and optimizes agricultural productivity.
The project has also achieved significant recognition, winning the Best Infrastructure Pioneer project award at the 17th Water Digest World Water Awards 2023- 24. With its partial commissioning, the initiative marks a crucial step towards securing water resources and empowering farmers in Odisha.