Kerala launched a mega water supply project at a cost of Rs 16 billion (EUR 279.4 million). The Japanese-funded scheme covering five districts, one of the biggest such projects in the entire country was inaugurated by Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan. The scheme would benefit some 4.1 million people living in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kozhikode and Kannur districts. Initial spadework to facilitate the project has been completed in the five districts. A total of 23 work contracts had been awarded in connection with the project. The project is expected to be completed by October 2008. If, for some reason, the work were to be delayed, the implementing agency Kerala Water Authority would have to shell out a heavy compensation to contractors, the Water Minister has said.

Source: Akhel Mathew, Gulf News, 26 Mar 2007

Tags: water supply