Jeypore,8th Nov 2025: The Odisha state government has sanctioned an additional ₹9.45 crore for the ongoing development of Jagannath Sagar in Jeypore. Earlier, nearly ₹16 crore had been sanctioned for the restoration and beautification of the lake, but the project remains incomplete.
According to official correspondence (Letter No. 22631), the newly sanctioned ₹9.45 crore will be used to continue the pending development works. Previously, under the Mukta Yojana, about ₹7 crore had been allocated, but due to contractual and conditional issues, only partial progress was achieved. A tender under number JNTC 1:25-26 had been awarded for ₹7,91,83,447 without DST (Detailed Site Testing).
Despite multiple reports from the State Water Rejuvenation Unit, which highlighted heavy silt and mud accumulation in the lake, these warnings were reportedly ignored. Instead, the quantity of silt was estimated at 4.42 lakh cubic meters, and excavation costs were calculated at ₹177 per cubic meter. However, the actual rate for soil excavation was only around ₹89 per cubic meter. This discrepancy has raised suspicions that the figures were manipulated to inflate project costs, and funds were released accordingly.
Citizens have raised serious questions regarding the involvement of several officials in the Jeypore Municipality, including the Executive Officer (IAS), Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Municipal Engineer, Junior Engineer, and Accountant. Many suspect irregularities in the execution of the project.
Locals are now demanding that the newly sanctioned funds be utilized under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to ensure transparency and efficiency. However, environmentalists and Jagannath Sagar enthusiasts believe that even with this additional ₹9.45 crore grant, the complete restoration of the lake may still not be achieved.
People have also demanded that the State Vigilance Department conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged corruption in the earlier phases of the Jagannath Sagar project. They want all previous project files and related documents to be scrutinized, and accountability fixed on the concerned officials and employees involved in the irregularities.
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