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.