Kasaragod: The Action Committee here has pressed on immediate completion of the long pending dam across Payaswini River at Bavikatte so as to tackle drinking water woes in Kasaragod City Municipal Council limits.

The Committee President E Kunhi Kannan said that on November 19, the members will picket Deputy Commissioner’s office in the morning as first move.

He said that every year a sum of Rs 10 to 12 lacs are spent to erect temporary barricades at Bavikatte so that drinking water could be pumped to the citizens. About two decades ago, the foundation stone for a dam was laid, but the work could not be completed.

“Due to these temporary barricades, the local administration is wasting huge money undoubtedly, but sad part is that it does not even serve the purpose. During summer season, these barricades get damaged and salt water incursion sets in compelling the people to drink salt water,” he said adding that it is mainly due to the apathy of the officials that the region could not get a permanent dam.

Warning that this year the Committee will not allow laying of temporary barricades, he said that the Committee would take up intense protest in near future if steps are not taken to complete the long pending project.

Convener Muneer among others were present.