Odisha: Bankatira Barrage project gains momentum as land compensation process begins

Bhubaneswar, Nov 8 (UNI) The long-pending Bankatira Barrage Project across the Budhabalanga River in Odisha's Balasore district has moved closer to implementation, with compensation payment for 7.98 acres of private land entering the final stage of acquisition. Possession of the land is targeted by November 15, while the required forest clearance has been secured. Water Resources Department Principal Secretary Shubha Sarma reviewed the project's progress on Sunday and took stock of preparations for expediting construction. Proposed in Remuna block, the barrage will provide Kharif irrigation to around 7,300 hectares across 120 villages in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts, benefiting 21,269 people.…