Cabinet nod to development of Kuttanad wetland ecosystem

New Delhi, Jul 24 (UNI) The Union Cabinet today decided in-principle to provide financial support for the development of Kuttanad wetland ecosystem in Kerala as part of the rehabilitation package for the farmers in suicide-prone areas.

The funds will be released after the Kerala Government identifies the activities to be undertaken and submits appropriate proposals to the central departments concerned, Information and Broadcasting Minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi told reporters.

To implement the scheme, the Kuttanad and Alappuzha Prosperity Council, a task implementation and management Committee and a project management unit will be set up.

The project will help eliminate in situ water pollution in Kuttanad, minimise chances of major crop loss during flood, improve de-watering operation, increase fish production, cut down solid waste pollution, promote natural waterflow, minimise the adverse ecological impact on closure of the barrage and elimination of waterweeds, and reproduce native fish, prawn and shells.

UNI YJ RP AS1501