In the run-up to the 2019 summer, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has asked district administrations to ensure that water kiosks in their jurisdiction are in working condition. As many as 5,000 kiosks had been installed across the State to ensure potable water supply during drought or drought-like situations.
The KSDMA on Wednesday wrote to all District Collectors asking them to ensure that the inspections were carried out on time. ''We have asked them to revisit all the locations and repair damaged kiosks. The inspections will be carried out from this month onwards and completed by March,'' KSDMA member secretary Sekhar L. Kuriakose said.
The first water kiosks were installed two years years ago as part of drought-mitigation measures in vulnerable locations. The idea was to ensure that households did not lack adequate supply of potable water during an emergency.
In October 2016, the State government had declared all 14 districts drought-hit after Kerala received 34% less rainfall during the southwest monsoon. The situation had worsened by April 2017 and the Centre had declared the State drought-hit.
In reality, a 2016-17-like drought is not expected this year. But many regions, including high-line and coastal locations, are likely to face water shortage.
The kiosks, in the long run, are expected to serve as mini water supply schemes in their own right, Mr. Kuriakose said. ‘‘They are not intended only for drought situations. Water can be supplied thorough them anytime a local body thinks it necessary,’’ he said.
To ensure transparency in water supply to the kiosks, the KSDMA had asked district administrations to use tankers equipped with GPS. The payment is made only after examining the log.