Chennai, February 10: The ambitious ₹14,000 crore Nadathai Vazhi Cauvery River Restoration Project, proposed as a vital ecological and irrigation lifeline for Tamil Nadu, is unlikely to commence before the upcoming assembly elections due to administrative and financial hurdles.
The delay has become a political issue, with AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami accusing the DMK government of intentionally stalling the project. Palaniswami claimed that the central government has already approved the scheme, but the state government is not taking action.
However, top officials from the Water Resources Department (WRD) stated that procedural obstacles, rather than political interference, are responsible for the slow progress. A senior official explained, “The finance department has yet to grant the necessary approvals. Additionally, coordination among nearly 12 departments, including the Water Resources Development Department, the Water Supply and Drainage Board, TNEB, and revenue, is required. Given the project’s scope, it is not feasible to start work before the elections.”
Another official indicated that the National River Conservation Directorate has approved ₹934 crore for the first phase, with a funding ratio of 60:40 between the central and state governments. The central government will contribute ₹560 crore, while Tamil Nadu’s share will be ₹374 crore.
The first phase will focus on the restoration of the Cauvery River and its major tributaries, such as Thirumanimuthar, Sarabanga, Bhavani, Amaravati, and Noyyal, covering a distance of approximately 1,092 kilometers. The remaining 214 kilometers from Tiruchi to the sea will be completed in the second phase.
Farmers in the delta region express that this project should have been initiated long ago. M. Ramasamy, a 52-year-old farmer from Thiruvarur, stated that industrialization and urban development have severely impacted water quality and availability.
He remarked, “Pollution has reduced fish populations, harmed crops, and affected drinking water. The river is no longer what it used to be.” He also referenced previous pollution reports indicating high contamination levels in various parts of the Cauvery basin.
The project includes proposals for sewage treatment plants, common wastewater treatment facilities for textile units, and riverbank improvements.
KV Elankiran, president of the Cauvery Delta Farmers’ Association, noted that districts like Thiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai often experience water shortages, resulting in only one crop season per year.
He added, “If this project is implemented, agriculture can be revitalized, allowing farmers to cultivate multiple seasons.”
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S.A.K./A.S.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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