THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In view of potable water shortage the government is devising steps to ensure rainwater harvesting on a war-footing. A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has decided to take immediate steps in association with local bodies. The state received around 30 pc less rainfall this monsoon season, compared to last year. Keeping in mind the possible potable water shortage, the government has decided to come up with steps to collect rainwater in ponds and wells.
To be implemented in association with local bodies, special teams will be set up in all panchayats for review. They will also be given sufficient training. As part of the initiative rainwater will be diverted to wells using pipelines. Renovation of ponds and streams and repair of check dams will be carried out. The government will initiate state-wide activities for rainwater harvesting at government establishments and schools. Also campaign will be organised to create water literacy among people.
Ministers Thomas Isaac, E Chandrasekharan, V S Sunil Kumar, K T Jaleel, Haritha Kerala vice-chairperson T N Seema, Additional Chief Secretaries K M Abraham, Paul Antony, P H Kurian, V S Senthil and other officers also attended the meeting.