The ‘Drink from Tap’ (DFT) Mission is a flagship initiative of the Government of Odisha, aimed at ensuring safe, high-quality, 24x7 drinking water supply to urban residents across the state. Successfully implemented in 24 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), the mission is now being scaled up to cover all 114 ULBs in Odisha. To facilitate smooth and timely implementation at this scale, a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is being developed.

The SOP draws on lessons learned from the initial implementation and is designed to provide clear, actionable guidance for ULBs. It aims to eliminate delays caused by unclear directives, streamline monitoring and reporting, and support adherence to tight implementation timelines. Developed in close coordination with the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO), the SOP integrates on-ground experiences and challenges faced by ULBs.

The SOP will address five thematic areas: Technical (design period, SCADA, automation), Institutional (tendering, staffing, capacity building), Financial Management (tariffs, sustainability), Operations and Maintenance (water quality, audits, energy efficiency), and Policy Measures (NRW, climate resilience, awareness, consumer satisfaction).

To enhance accessibility and usability, the SOP is also being translated into a digital dashboard, which will serve as a dynamic platform for reference and implementation.