Bhubaneswar: Housing and urban development minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra on Monday reviewed drinking water supply arrangements ahead of Rath Yatra and the expected influx of lakhs of devotees to Puri and inspected the ongoing construction of the new 42 MLD water treatment plants in the city.The minister held a review meeting with senior officials to assess preparedness for ensuring uninterrupted supply of safe and clean drinking water during the festival period. Watco managing director Debabrata Mohanty, senior departmental officers briefed him on the progress of key initiatives and special arrangements made for Rath Yatra.During a field inspection, Mahapatra reviewed the progress of major components of the 42 MLD water treatment plant, including clarifier, filtration unit, equipment installation and allied infrastructure. He directed the executing agencies to expedite work while maintaining strict quality standards.“The population of Puri increases and the influx of devotees will go manifold during Rath Yatra. Ensuring uninterrupted supply of safe drinking water to devotees and residents is our top priority. All agencies must remain fully prepared to respond to any contingency,” the minister said after the review work.Mahapatra also reviewed arrangements for round-the-clock water supply around Shree Jagannath Temple, pilgrim accommodation centres, temporary camps and other key locations across the city. He directed officials to monitor the water supply network and keep standby pumps, power backup systems and emergency mechanisms ready.As a precautionary measure, WATCO has kept mobile water tankers, temporary water distribution points and emergency response teams on standby to address any unforeseen disruption in water supply. A dedicated control room will also function round the clock throughout the Rath Yatra period to ensure prompt response and uninterrupted services.
