Question : NAL WATERWAYS IN KERALA

(a) The length of waterways declared as National Waterways in Kerala ;

(b) The estimated amount proposed for the restoration of these waterways;

(c) The amount allotted to Kerala by the Centre to undertake the work during the current financial year;

(d) Whether any complaints have been received that the amount earmarked in the current year’s budget is meagre;

(e) If so, whether the Union Government is likely to allot sufficient funds to complete the works as early as possible; and

(f) If so, the details in this regard ?

MINISTER OF SHIPPING, ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS (SHRI T.R. BAALU)

(a) : The length of National Waterway in Kerala is 205 km .

(b) to (f) : The estimated cost of making this Waterway fully functional is Rs.76.95 crores. A provision of Rs.15.74 crores has been made for the year 2006-07. No complaint has been received regarding this year’s budget provision for this Waterway. However, efforts will be made to provide adequate funds for the next financial year.