ARCHIVED MEDIA RELEASE
PA/6/2005 21 February 2005
Australian High Commissioner launches Gangtok-Shillong water program website
Australia's High Commissioner to India, Mr John McCarthy, today inaugurated a website devoted to promoting knowledge sharing on water management and reform through the Australia-assisted Gangtok-Shillong and South Asia Regional, Water and Sanitation Program.
Through this program, Australia is providing technical assistance to help the Governments of Meghalaya and Sikkim to plan for and deliver improved water and sanitation services, particularly to poor communities.
Speaking on the occasion Mr McCarthy said, "Safe, clean drinking water is one of life's most precious commodities. By improving basic services like water and sanitation, Australia is helping India lay the groundwork for ensuring the poor can improve their economic prospects and participate more fully in society."
"The project will develop sustainable approaches to water use for the benefit of future generations," added Mr McCarthy.
The A$16 million (Rs 53 crores) two-year project started in December 2003 and is being executed by a leading Australian consulting firm, Kellogg Brown and Root Pty Ltd, in partnership with the two State governments.
The project complements Australian assistance of A$3 million (Rs 10 crores) to the World Bank's Water and Sanitation Program for South Asia to facilitate water sector reform and improve services to poor and vulnerable communities across the South Asian region including India.
For further information, please contact Andrew Adzic, Head Development Cooperation, Australian High Commission at 51494460.