Kochi: The
state government will implement a series of projects with the help of
district administration to ensure that quality drinking water is
available in the district throughout the year.

Chief minister
Oommen Chandy after a review meeting here on Monday of the relief
measures being undertaken in the wake of a drought-like situation told
mediapersons that priority would be for small rainwater harvesting
projects and check dams.

Besides,
projects to tap sources like unused wells and ponds and the several
quarries in the district would be implemented in the short-term, he
said.

Directions were given to the district collector to
provide relief to areas facing acute drinking water shortage and also
assess progress of these short-term projects. Kerala State Electricity
Board was asked to ensure power supply to potable water projects,
notwithstanding outstanding bills, especially at Mudavur, Ashamannur and
Payipra areas. Two squads would be deployed to prevent ‘water theft’.

Chandy
also directed KWA to supply drinking water at Kannamali on alternate
days and the state government would bear the expenses for tanker water
supply. All ministers from the district, legislators and the collector
were present at the meeting.