Wed Jul 23 18:31:49 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on that information:
**Summary:**
The Kerala government, under the ‘Suchitwa Keralam’ (Rural) initiative, has allocated ₹14 lakh from a ₹10 crore fund for the rejuvenation of Vembanad lake in Ernakulam. This is part of a larger effort to restore Vembanad and Ashtamudi lakes, which are designated Ramsar sites. The initial phase involves five projects, including liquid waste management at a school, setting up bottle booths in Kottuvalli and Kaitharam, and infrastructure development at a material collection facility in Kumbalanghi.
**News Article:**
**₹14 Lakh Allocated for Vembanad Lake Rejuvenation Under ‘Suchitwa Keralam’ Initiative**
**KOCHI, July 24, 2025** – As part of a larger effort to restore ecologically significant Ramsar sites, the Kerala government has earmarked ₹14 lakh for the rejuvenation of Vembanad Lake in Ernakulam. The funding comes from a dedicated ₹10 crore ring-fenced account established under the ‘Suchitwa Keralam’ (Rural) initiative.
This initial allocation will support the implementation of five key projects aimed at improving the lake’s health. Projects include the establishment of a liquid waste management system at GVHSS, Kaitharam, North Paravur, receiving ₹3.5 lakh. To combat plastic waste, ₹2.72 lakh has been allocated for a bottle booth in Kaitharam and ₹7 lakh for a similar booth in Kottuvalli. Additionally, ₹1.12 lakh will be used for infrastructure development at a material collection facility in Kumbalanghi.
The Vembanad and Ashtamudi lakes are designated Ramsar sites, recognizing their vital ecological importance. The ₹10 crore fund underscores the government’s commitment to preserving these crucial ecosystems. According to officials, the disbursement of funds for these projects under the Suchitwa Keralam (Rural) initiative will be based on the project lists by the executive director of the program.