In order to fortify and develop the important Irrigation and Drainage management system in the Cauvery Delta of Tamil nadu, GOI AND ADB has signed a pact on July 14 which estimates around $100 million (670 Crores approx.). This system is going to revitalize the mounds and hills of the six major Irrigation systems in the Vennar system and also to renovate the existing Pumping stations.
What is Cauvery Delta?
Cauvery Delta Zone (CDZ) lies in the eastern part of Tamil Nadu between 10.00-11.30, North latitude and between 78.15 – 79.45 longitudes. It is bounded by the Bay of Bengal on the East and the Palk straight on the South, Trichy district on the west, Perambalur, Ariyalur districts on the North West, Cuddalore district on the North and Puddukkottai district on the South West.
This Zone stretches to almost 50 revenue taluks of six different districts of Tamilnadu. All these areas depend on this river water for Irrigation and Agriculture.
It is noted that CDZ has a total geographic land area of 14.47 lakh hectares which is equivalent to 11.13 percent of the Tamilnadu’s total land area.
Loan Tenure:
The loan from ADB’s ordinary capital resources has a 25-year term. The Water Resources Department of the State of Tamil Nadu is responsible for implementing the project and is expected to be completed by December 2020.
Benefits:
The Cauvery river basin is an important source of water for agriculture, for Tamil Nadu and the neighboring states. The vast majority of the delta’s population is engaged in farming and fishing. The project aims to improve existing infrastructure and will provide flood protection and renewed access to irrigation.
About ADB:
♦ Name – Asian Development Bank
♦ HQ – Philippines
♦ CEO – Takehiko Nakao
♦ Establishment – 1966