State Government has released Rs 90 cr for taking up restoration of 480 lakes under Mission Kakatiya in the first phase, Irrigation Minister T Harish Rao said. Officials were told to complete tenders process for 50 per cent of lakes in first phase by Jan 25.Talking to press persons at Secretariat here after holding a video conference on lakes, sand policy and related issues, he said that they will seek Rs 1,000 cr from Nabard for restoration of 2060 lakes and a weekly review will be held he said. Union Water Resources Minster Uma Bharathi assured us of financial assistance for lakes restoration he said. Collectors were directed to prepare proposals on lakes, modalities on new sand policy he said. The government wants to offer sand to poor at low cost he said adding that the officials are asked to prepare a plan of action. Of 480 lakes identified 170 lakes were given administrative sanctions and the rest will be given in another seven days. Harish Rao directed to expedite the process of tenders he said. (NSS)
