Incomplete canal scheme increases water woes

The scheme was implemented in 2006 with an initial project cost of Rs 369 crore but now, the project cost has escalated to Rs 620 crore. The scheme envisions supply of water to ML Theri, a drier area covering the coastal areas of Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts. The scheme is to be implemented in four phases. The first two phases had been completed for Rs 320 crore and for the remaining two phases, Rs 300 crore had been allotted by the state government in the recent budget. 

The project is primarily aimed at supplying drinking water to areas like Valliyur, Thisayanvilai, Radhapuram, Udangudi and Sathankulam. 

Speaking to DTNext, Gunaseelan, AAP Functionary from Udangudi, claimed that over five lakh people would be benefit from the project. ML Theri is a dry area located at a higher ground level and hence drinking water could be available only through the Thamirabarani-Nambiyar canal scheme. 

Similarly, former DMK MLA of Radhapuram constituency, Appavu, claimed that excess water from Thamirabarani river could be diverted to the drier areas of Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli districts if the scheme is completed. The state is more interested in supplying water to Pepsi and Coca Cola companies but is not interested in supplying water to the people of drier areas who are suffering from intense shortage of drinking water, claimed Appavu.