Water

Proposed Revision in ADB's Water Policy
Regarding Large Water Resources Projects
Comments from Clients and Stakeholders

I strongly object to the change. Even with the current policy, there are cases where people are badly affected by the water project but the implementing agencies are ignoring the protests. The case in point is the 37 crore rupee project for drinking water supply to Sirsi town in North Kanara district in Karnataka. The project, when completed, will deprive water to thousands of families along the "Balagar" stream (not a river) and thousand more will be submerged. Even though a few affected farmers have taken the matter to the court, I will not be surprised if they are bulldozed in to submission by the local officials.

In view of this, ADB should drop the planned change. On the contrary, a stricter policy to safeguard the interests of the poor is suggested.