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| Cherukunnu Panchayat, Kannur |
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Although surrounded by 2 rivers, people of Cherukunnu Panchayat, Kannur were destined to drink brackish water as both the surface and ground water were affected by salt water intrusion. And although they were surrounded by many promises of potable water schemes, nothing materialized. It was at this juncture that the people and their representatives decided to take the initiative to start the first desalination plant in the State.
Though dearth of money and lack of technically qualified persons posed initial challenges, the enthusiasm and determination of the people surmounted all obstacles. If the Grama Panchayat contributed Rs.7 lakhs, the Block Panchayat chipped in with Rs.5 lakhs and the District Panchayat contributed their share of Rs.2 lakhs, the people by their voluntary labour contributed Rs.1 lakhs towards the Rs.19 lakh-venture. The balance amount was raised through loans as the people were determined to drink potable water, come what may.
Initially, the scheme was able to provide drinking water to 350 families, which has now been expanded to 750 families. Although there were initial hiccups due to machine trouble and electricity, those were overcome by thanks to the efforts of the motivated beneficiaries.
Water from the 30000 litres per day plant is distributed in collaboration with KWA. In addition to 12 public taps of KWA, the beneficiary committee too maintains 12 public taps. Seeing the success of the scheme, the Panchayat is planning to dig one more well.
Courtesy: Malayala Manorama, April 13, 2004
Contributed by: Administrator
