Status report shows lack of planning by Tamil Nadu govt to handle water crisis

Days after the Madras High Court pulled up Tamil Nadu government for not addressing the acute water crisis, the status report filed by the state has exposed the lack of preparedness by the government to tackle the water crisis.

India Today accessed the state government's reply to the Madras HC on June 16, which has exposed the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) government.

The state government in its affidavit said that only five out of 201 water bodies have been fully restored in Chennai.

These water bodies in the city ensure sustainable water security in the city and surrounding areas.

The affidavit filed by the chief engineer of the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board listed out the steps taken by the agency in regard for restoration of the water bodies.

While 52 water bodies are being restored at a cost of Rs 18.20 crore, the work is yet to begin for another 55 water bodies.

A detailed project report was prepared in this regard. Meanwhile, the work is in progress for 38 water bodies under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.

The affidavit highlighted that if the restoration work of all water bodies is completed, one Tmcft (thousand million cubic feet) of water would be available and will recharge ground water table.

Despite the devastating floods in 2015, the government has not fast tracked the projects.

Earlier this week, the Madras HC pulled up the government for the acute water crisis and summoned it to file a status report on the measures taken by government to avoid the crisis.

The Madras HC observed that the government did not take adequate steps even if the water crisis in wake of failed monsoons was expected.

The high court was hearing a petition on the exploitation of groundwater for commercial purposes.

The affidavit also listed out various short term and long term solutions by the metro water department to address the crisis.