THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Though the future of the Vizhinjam port project is still uncertain, the locals at Vizhinjam have already begun to enjoy the benefits of the project. Following a new broad road that connected the port area to the Vizhinjam junction, a new drinking water project will be commissioned at Vizhinjam on April 25.

Chief minister Oommen Chandy will inaugurate Kerala Water Authority's (KWA) water treatment plant with a capacity of 3 million litre per day.

Though the plant is primarily meant for the requirements of the Vizhinjam International Seaport Project and allied establishments, it will also serve the needs of the water-starved coastal area. Of the 3 mld water to be treated from Vellayani lake, 1.5 mld treated water will be used for Vizhinjam project, while the remaining 1.5 mld will be utilized to supply drinking water for local residents.

The water supply project for local residents is undertaken by KWA as part of corporate social responsibility of the Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited. Union minister for state Shashi Tharoor will be the chief guest. Water resources minister P J Joseph will preside.