Andaman gets clearance for crucial water supply project

Port Blair, Jul 3 (UNI) The Union Ministry of Environment and Forest has accorded environmental clearance to the project mooted by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration for transportation of water from Rutland to Port Blair.

This would help the far flung islands to cater to the increasing need of drinking water for residents of Port Blair and its adjoining places.

''The project envisages laying of pipeline for construction of CC Weirs and pump house for transportation of water from Rutland to Port Blair by the Andaman Public Works Department,'' PWD sources today confirmed.

Two years ago when the Islands were badly hit by water crisis, the local administration had planned this ambitious project of bringing drinking water from Rutland island, about 130 km from here.

Earlier, the local administration had planned to bring water in barges but later it was decided to transfer water through pipe lines, which need some tree-cutting and environmental clearance.

The environmental clearance has brought a sense of relief for the officials and islanders of the remote archipelago, which suffer shortage of water in April and May months, almost every year.

However, some other similar projects like Flat Bay water supply project are still pending with the administration.

UNI SKR PL SW KN1712