The United Democratic Front (UDF) government in Kerala, in its revised budget, has allocated a substantial sum of Rs 559.39 crore for irrigation, flood control, and coastal protection. The primary focus is on strengthening the water distribution system, improving irrigation infrastructure, and enhancing flood mitigation measures across the state.
Allocation Breakdown for Irrigation Projects
Major and medium irrigation projects have received Rs 213.39 crore, while minor irrigation schemes have been allocated Rs 176.27 crore. An additional Rs 1.50 crore has been set aside for command area development. Flood control and coastal protection activities have received a significant allocation of Rs 168.23 crore, underscoring the government's emphasis on tackling climate change-related challenges and safeguarding vulnerable regions.
Modernization of Neyyar Irrigation Project
Among the key initiatives announced in the budget is the modernization of the Neyyar irrigation project. This includes improving water distribution efficiency by upgrading irrigation infrastructure and undertaking repair and maintenance works on the canal network connected to the project.
Leveraging Tourism Potential Through PPP
The budget also proposes to leverage the tourism potential of assets under the irrigation department through public-private partnerships (PPP). The government plans to develop an irrigation museum, dam tourism initiatives, canal tourism projects, and Irrigation guest houses under the PPP model.
Water Quality Monitoring and Health Initiatives
In a move aimed at preventing waterborne diseases, the budget announced the establishment of new laboratories to monitor water quality across the state. The water supply and sanitation sector has received a total allocation of Rs 895.59 crore. The budget noted that several communicable diseases originate from contaminated drinking water. To expand testing facilities, new laboratories will be set up, and college laboratories will be utilized for water quality analysis.
