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Title: Need to expedite completion of Kollam-Kottappuram National Water Ways Project in Kerala.
SHRI K.P. DHANAPALAN (CHALAKUDY): Sir, I would like to raise an important issue relating to water path. I wish to point out that in 1993, a water path from Kollam to Kottappuram in Kerala, the third biggest in India, has been named as National Water Path 3. An amount of Rs. 124 crore was allotted for developing the route which has not been fully utilised by the State Government. But even after a lapse of seventeen years, no visible progress has been made.
The Central Government must take some initiatives for early completion of this prestigious project as this is very useful for a large number of people in Kerala. This project was actually commissioned on 20th November, 2007 and only one journey was performed and thereafter no progress has been made. Tourist circuit programme will also get a boost out of this project.
Taking into consideration the upcoming Vallarpadam Container Project, the above said developmental works are quite important. The Central Government should intervene and pressurise/advise the State Government for taking much more interest in the said Project. If there is any scarcity of funds, that may also be sanctioned during this financial year itself.
MR. CHAIRMAN : Shri Chandrakant Khaire to speak. Shri Khaire, your matter is sub judice. So, please be cautious while raising the matter.