Odisha GW

The Ground Water Development (GWD) agency in Odisha operates under the Department of Water Resources (DoWR), focusing on the assessment, development, and sustainable management of groundwater resources across the state. It is responsible for monitoring and managing groundwater levels, and its activities include resource estimation, well monitoring, and ensuring equitable access to groundwater for agricultural, domestic, and industrial purposes.

As per the latest assessment, Odisha has a net dynamic groundwater resource of approximately 16.69 lakh hectare meters (BCM). The development of groundwater resources has been systematically done through regular assessments, with sectoral utilization focusing mainly on irrigation, followed by domestic and industrial use. Groundwater recharge occurs naturally through rainfall and other local factors, with particular emphasis on effective management to prevent depletion, especially during non-monsoon seasons