Keralam to frame comprehensive water policy by early 2027
The government will hold a water conclave in Thiruvananthapuram this December as part of the policy-making process.
The Keralam government will formulate a comprehensive water policy by early 2027 to bring various divisions under the Water Resources Department into a common framework, according to South First and The Hindu.
Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph announced the plan during a press conference on Monday, November 2. The proposed policy will cover irrigation, dam safety, drinking water supply, and the functioning of the Kerala Water Authority (KWA).
As part of the process, a Keralam Water Conclave will be held in Thiruvananthapuram in the first week of December. International disaster management specialist Murali Thummarukudy is expected to attend the event.
The Minister also announced a technology-based pilot project in Thiruvananthapuram to address drinking water loss between Aruvikkara and consumers, noting that nearly 50 per cent of water is lost in this stretch. The government is also considering setting up desalination plants in coastal areas.
To manage local issues, committees headed by MLAs will be formed in all 140 Assembly constituencies to meet every month. District-level reviews led by District Collectors will occur every three months, while ministerial-level reviews will happen every six months.
Regarding dam safety, a comprehensive assessment of 22 dams will be completed by December 31. The state will also seek the Centre's intervention to resolve a dispute with Tamil Nadu and will file a petition regarding the Mullaperiyar Dam inspection.