The Hindu 22.03.2013
Funds awaited for desilting channels and tanks
The 180 km-long river and 92-km distribution channels and 31 tanks under the Noyyal river basin that badly requires repairs and renovation await funds, especially with South-West monsoon two months away.
The Corporation, which has taken some of the tanks such as Narasampathy, Selvampathy, Krishnampathy, Kolrampathy, Kumarasamy Kulam, Selva Chinthamani Kulam, Ukkadam, Valankulam and Singanallur on a 99-year lease in 2009 is waiting for funds.
It was planning to repair and revive these tanks at a cost of Rs. 200 crore and turn them into bird sanctuaries and recreation spots.
Under the National Lake Conservation Project (NLCP), the Water Resource Organisation (WRO) of the Public Works Department (PWD) has planned repairs of eight tanks in 12 to 18 months at Rs. 100 crore. Works will include de-silting 31.8 km channels and help irrigate about 2,248 hectares. The tanks will include Perur, Kuniamuthur, Kurichi, Vellalore, and Odderpalayam. The Detailed Project Report is under preparation and is likely to be submitted by May.
Meanwhile, WRO has mooted a proposal for
desilting 92 km of the channels and 23 tanks under the Noyyal river
system besides strengthening their bunds. Officials anticipate the
sanction to come any time, so that the works could be completed before
May-end.
