Keralam to announce comprehensive water policy by early 2027
Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph announced reforms including dam safety assessments and new constituency-level committees to manage water resources.
The Keralam government will introduce a comprehensive water policy by early 2027 to integrate various divisions under the Water Resources department, according to The Hindu. Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph announced the plan during a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday, November 2.
The policy aims to improve the efficiency of the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) and enhance public access to services. To assist in this process, a Keralam Water Conclave will be held in Thiruvananthapuram during the first week of December, featuring experts such as international disaster management specialist Murali Thummarukudy.
To address drinking water shortages, a technology-based pilot project will launch in the capital to reduce the nearly 50 per cent water loss occurring between Aruvikkara and consumers. The government is also considering coastal desalination plants and a master plan for Thiruvananthapuram, Kazhakoottam, and Technocity to be finished during the current government's term.
New governance measures include forming constituency-level committees led by MLAs to meet monthly regarding irrigation and water issues. District Collectors will chair quarterly reviews, while ministerial-level reviews will occur every six months.
Regarding dam safety, the state will file a special petition for a detailed inspection of the Mullaperiyar Dam, with Senior Advocate Mohan V. Katarki appointed as lead counsel. A safety assessment of 22 dams under the KWA and Irrigation department is due by December 31.
Other initiatives include a ₹4,000 crore coastal protection project with Asian Development Bank assistance and an asset-mapping exercise to be finished within six months to identify encroachments.