Streamlining Pipeline Approvals in Odisha

In a significant move aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, the Odisha Water Resources Department (DoWR) has unveiled a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for granting Right of Way (RoW) permissions concerning the installation of pipelines across rivers and other water bodies. This initiative is part of the state's broader efforts to improve the Ease of Doing Business and ensure that industrial and infrastructural projects proceed smoothly.

Centralized Approval Authority

Under the newly established SOP, the DoWR has designated itself as the sole authority responsible for approving RoW applications that involve its land and the water bodies under its jurisdiction. This means that any industry, government entity, or urban local body that wishes to lay pipelines must submit their applications directly to the Engineer-in-Chief of Water Resources.

Multi-Tiered Scrutiny Process

The SOP outlines a comprehensive multi-tiered scrutiny process designed to ensure thorough evaluation of each application. Initially, preliminary checks will be conducted at the Engineer-in-Chief’s office. Following this, the proposal will undergo further reviews by divisional officers, additional chief engineers, and controlling officers.

Field Visits and Technical Assessments

To enhance the accuracy of the assessment, joint field visits will be organized between the DoWR and the applicants to verify pipeline alignments and evaluate potential impacts on water bodies and existing DoWR assets. Technical evaluations will include critical factors such as river scour depth, the safety of canal embankments, positioning of piers, and required freeboard levels. The Chief Engineers of Design and Planning will be responsible for these technical assessments before the proposals are presented to a Technical Committee established by the department.

Conditions and Timelines

One of the notable conditions outlined in the SOP is that applicants must acknowledge that they cannot claim compensation for any future changes to pipeline alignment or modifications made to canals and water bodies. The final decision regarding the applications will rest with the Water Resources Department, which may request additional clarifications, recommend modifications, or grant approvals. Once a complete application is received, the department has committed to a 45-day timeframe for issuing RoW permissions.

Fun Fact

Did you know that the concept of pipelines dates back to ancient civilizations? The earliest known use of pipelines occurred in ancient Rome, where aqueducts were designed to transport water over long distances!

Source: Sambad English