The Times of India          04.09.2013

Corporation wants Kerala water authority probed for diverting water

KOCHI: The corporation council which met on Tuesday has decided to approach the state government seeking a probe into the allegation that the Kerala water authority (KWA) has been diverting water meant for city residents to Cochin Shipyard and Naval Base.

The issue was raised by councillor K R Premakumar. "Many parts of the city, particularly west Kochi, have been facing acute water shortage due to the diversion of water. The city may not benefit even if the Pazhoor drinking water project, under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission, becomes a reality as KWA has made all plans to divert water," he said.

Meanwhile, mayor Tony Chammany said that the issue of water shortage was raised with the minister for water resources P J Joseph recently. He has agreed to constitute a committee under a KWA superintending engineer to look into the matter, Chammany said.

"At the meeting, which was attended by Benny Behanan MLA, the corporation had raised the issue of water scarcity experienced by many parts of the city," he said. Mayor also expressed his hope that when the Pazhoor drinking water project becomes a reality the issue would be addressed completely.

Earlier, the council discussed the financial condition of the local body. Councillors belonging to both the opposition and ruling front criticised the civic administration for postponing the special council meeting, which was scheduled to be held on Wednesday, to discuss the issue.

The mayor said the meeting would now be held on September 23. "The financial standing committee has requested additional time for collecting details. As it was an important matter, the standing committee has said that the issue can be discussed only after furnishing all details," Chammany said.