The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a USD 100 million loan for ‘Climate Adaptation in Vennar Subbasin of Cauvery Delta project’ in Tamil Nadu.The financing will be used to strengthen embankments of six major irrigation water channels in the Vennar system and rehabilitate 13 irrigation pumping schemes.

The Cauvery river basin is a critical source of water for agriculture, both within Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states. The vast majority of the delta’s population is engaged in farming and fishing.

Key points of this agreement : – 

• The aim of the loan agreement is to strengthen key irrigation and drainage system and improve water management in the Vennar sub-basin of the Cauvery delta in Tamil Nadu.
• The loan will support Tamil Nadu’s water resources professionals to manage resources better, and with greater involvement of the stakeholders they service,” said Mr. L. B. Sondjaja, Deputy Country Director of ADB’s India Resident Mission, who signed the loan agreement for ADB.
• A separate project agreement was signed by V. Shanmugam, Chief Engineer, Water Resources Department, on behalf of the State of Tamil Nadu.
• Communities will be involved in planning and delivery of water services. Flood forecasting and warning systems will be installed and a flood risks map drawn up to help communities respond more effectively to extreme events.
• The loan will be provided from ADB’s ordinary capital resources which has a 25-year term. The project is expected to be completed by December 2020.

Asian Development Bank : – 

• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank established on 19 December 1966.
• Which is Headquartered in Ortigas Center located in Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines, and maintains 31 field offices around the world.
• ADB has 67 members, of which 48 are from within Asia and the Pacific and 19 outside.
• President: Takehiko Nakao.