The Suka-Paika drainage channel, typically called “the dead river” in the Mahanadi delta region of Cuttack district would soon be enlivened through a complete rejuvenation. This was discussed in a high-level meeting held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Suresh Mahapatra here wherein Additional Chief Secretary Water Resources Anu Garg outlined the technical, administrative and financial issues for discussion.
Mahapatra directed the department to soon float a tender for renovation of the channel. A target was set to complete the work within 18 months. He asked engineers of the department to keep the renovated channel filled with water throughout the year so that famers on both sides could utilise the water for irrigation.
He also directed to carefully schedule the project implementation timing to avoid any possible ingress of high flood water from the Mahanadi. It was decided to construct four bridges connecting village roads from both sides of the channel.
An estimated cost of Rs 49.67 crore was accorded in-principle approval.
Garg appraised that the channel originated from the river’s right embankment near village Ayatpur. After traversing about 30.45 km across 21 gram panchyats in Cuttack district, it again merged in the Mahanadi at Bankala near Tarapur. The natural channel’s mouth was closed in the 1950s as a high flood-control measure.
Renovation of the channel would yield multisided outcomes from the viewpoints of creation of irrigational potential, growing of cash crops, fishing activities and restoration of the ecosystem.