Guj Govt to take up feasibility test for Kalpsar project

Gandhinagar, Mar 16 (UNI) After sucessfully executing Narmada Saravor project, which has partially addressed the drinking water problem of the State, the Gujarat Government is keen to set up a 'Drinking Water Lake' in Gulf of Khambhat and decided to go ahead with the work of feasibility report, scheduled to be completed by 2010.

A pre-feasibility report prepared by renowned experts are of the view that 'Drinking Water Lake' in Gulf of Khambhat is after studying for almost eight years and spending Rs 2,544 crore possible.

The world's biggest man made drinking water lake also named as 'Kalpsar Project' could be possible, Gujarat Water Supply Minister Bhupendrasinh Chudasma said in the State Assembly today in response to a question.

He said the experts have concluded that development of Kalpsar Sarovar in the Gulf of Khambhat is feasible from the technical and socio-economic points of view.

The Minister was replying to a written question raised during the Question Hour.

He said the cost of entire project is estimated at about Rs 54,000 crore on the basis of current prices. As per the plans, the Government will set up a dam in the gulf of Khambhat in Bhavnagar district to develop the drinking water lake.

In reply to another supplementary question, Mr Chudasma said the Government is going ahead with preparation of 'Feasibility Report' of the project, which is likely to be completed by 2010.

The Government will take necessary action, if the Feasibility Report is positive and take up the project after getting clearance from Central Government, Mr Chudasma added.

UNI