Kochi Water Summit calls for sustainable solutions

Kochi: The Association of Kerala Water Authority Officers organized the Kochi Water Summit 2025 on Saturday in connection with World Water Day, focusing on improving water distribution in Kochi. The event, held at the Mahakavi G Auditorium, was inaugurated by mayor M Anilkumar.
During his address, the mayor stressed that the drinking water sector should remain in the public domain rather than be privatized. He urged the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) to incorporate decentralization strategies to enhance efficiency. KJ Maxi, MLA, attended as the chief guest. Experts, public representatives, and officials participated in the summit and offered various suggestions to improve the city's drinking water distribution system.
A key recommendation was the development of a sustainable water distribution plan for Kochi, aligned with long-term development policies up to 2040. Experts stressed the need for scientific methods to regulate water consumption, detect leaks, and ensure timely maintenance.
Discussions also highlighted the importance of addressing employee concerns while implementing the ADB project, avoiding any risk of privatization. Many speakers stressed that Kochi's water needs could only be met if the proposed 190 MLD water treatment plant in Aluva is constructed.
CITU district president John Fernandes also participated, advocating for a more inclusive approach by the water authority. He pointed out that when accepting financial aid, including from ADB, the impact of associated conditions on the public must be carefully considered. Several speakers expressed concerns about the involvement of organizations with potential privatization interests, including the World Bank.