KOLLAM: An alternative drinking water project to save the dying Sasthamkotta lake from over-exploitation will be implemented by the minor irrigation department by sourcing water from the Kallada- Kadapuzha river. However, the beneficiaries have raised concerns over the possibility of water pollution by pesticides and chemical fertilisers from the nearby fields. The project with a budget of Rs 34 crore, including pumping facility, will use the Kerala Water Authority treatment plant at Sasthamkotta before the water is fed to the distribution network.
"We will ensure the purity of the water distributed from our filtration unit at Sasthamkotta. The filtration process normally checks for 15 parameters, including the presence of chlorides, nitrides, nitrates and turbidity. This will purify the water from harmful fertilisers and pesticides. Above all, the water is brought through pipes connected to the source and there is no chance of pesticides getting mixed with the source," Mr Thampi Satyanandan, KWA assistant engineer, Sasthamkotta, told DC.
A weir will be constructed near the Kadapuzha part of the Kallada river after identifying less saline portion of the river due to its interaction with the water of Ashtamudi lake. Water will be carried to the treatment plant through pipes. The treated water will flow to Anandavalleeswaram tank that is kept at a level difference of 14 metres. A booster pressure pump will be used at Neendakara and Dalawapuram to facilitate smoother flow of water. The filtration unit also has an automated monitoring system of inflow and outflow of water to the distribution network. The plant has an automated cleaning mechanism that identifies the time to clean the filters and will wash of the filter beds.
