KOZHIKODE: 'Pulkodikootam', the samiti under which the people in the coastal area of Payyoli agitated demanding supply of drinking water, has made it clear that it has not called off the protest after the MLA convened a talk on January 7.
"We have demanded immediate drinking water distribution in the coastal belt where more than 250 families are suffering for decades. That plea has not been heard," said samiti chairman M. Samad.
In the meeting, MLA K. Dasan announced a drinking water project costing a crore in Payyoli. But the samiti says that though they welcome the project, there was apprehension over its implementation. "The project is envisioned to be set up at the premises of old panchayat office compound which could be acquired for NH development. Secondly, we have no idea how long we have to wait for the completion of the project. So, the immediate need is to supply fresh drinking water in the area," Samad said.
Yellowish water is the issue in the wells of the coastal belt and according to the study conducted by the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), excess iron content is present in the water, which is common in the entire stretch. "We are living with this contaminated water since decades. The daily usage of this water affects our health and lives. It is high time authorities pay heed to us. We are facing social ostracism due to the non-availability of proper drinking water," says Padmaja, a homemaker.
'Pulkodikootam' has also demanded that the project be handed over to the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) for its smooth implementation. But Payyoli municipality vice-chairman, Madathil Nanu says that the project would be completed soon and the issue has been solved.
