The Tamil Nadu government has proposed to revise its water policy with a renewed focus on conservation and groundwater regulation.
Authorities are giving final touches to the draft water policy document, which will be referred to the Cabinet for approval. Subsequently, it will be made available in the public domain to seek the comments of stakeholders. After modification, if necessary, it will be adopted by the government, according to a senior official.
It is after a gap of 18 years that the State Water Policy is being revisited in a comprehensive way.
In July 1994, the government (during Jayalalithaa's first term as Chief Minister) unveiled the policy to develop, conserve, utilise and manage water resources on an integrated and environmentally sound basis to meet the growing needs.
The State is engaged in revising the policy at a time when the Centre is reviewing the National Water Policy. Comments on the draft National Water Policy, available on the website of the Union Water Resources Ministry, can be offered till February 29. The official said that one of the focal areas would be to regulate the use of groundwater by industry. The message had to be sent out that industry could no longer rely on the unlimited use of groundwater.
The policy document is likely to throw some light on how the Tamil Nadu Groundwater (Development and Management) Act, 2003 can be implemented. The law has not come into force.
Given the fact that there are about 39,000 tanks in the State, the document will also lay the broad framework for restoration, rehabilitation and renewal of the water bodies. It will also touch upon those aspects that will talk of optimal utilisation of water in tail of major irrigation systems.
Focus will be on conservation and groundwater regulation
It is after a gap of 18 years the policy is being revisited in a comprehensive way
