Puducherry, Jul 14 (PTI) Lt Governor K Kailashnathan on Tuesday said that a comprehensive drinking water supply scheme would be launched soon in Puducherry with the economic and technical support of France based Agence Francaisede Developpement (AFD) to ensure that drinking water is available in all the areas.
Addressing a meeting held on the lawns of the French Consulate here on the occasion of celebration of the 237th French National Day, the LG said that the scheme envisaged treatment of water from various waterbodies and storing in overhead tanks for distribution to the needy areas in rural and semi urban areas.
A release from Lok Niwas said that Kailashnathan highlighted the long cultural and historical ties between France and Puducherry (a former French colony) and said that the seaports in Puducherry and Karaikal regions were being developed with specific aim of protectng environment. The French government was extending full cooperation for the scheme.
A team from Puducherry had already visited France to study the various features of the environment friendly ports.
A high-powered team from France would visit Puducherry, a union territory, next month. He said that the development of ports by protecting the environment would also contribute to the development of economic livelihood of fishermen.
The Lt Governor said that Puducherry administration was taking steps to expand the runway of local airport. He stressed the need for direct flight service between France and Puducherry. “Day is not far off for the introduction of the flight service”, he said.
Kailashnathan also said that the territorial government had already taken several steps to safeguard properties of the French nationals in Puducherry. A separate wing had already been in place to take care of the properties of the French nationals. “Even if you are in France, your properties in Puducherry will be safeguarded”, he assured.
There are 3200 French nationals residing in Puducherry and similarly many who are of Puducherry origin are residing in France.
Consul General of France in Puducherry Etienne Folland Piegue, UT minister V P Sivakolundhu and officials of the French Consulate and others were present. PTI CORR SA
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