The state government has exempted drinking water projects in drought-hit areas from the purview of the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements (KTPP) Act.
Minister for Municipalities and Local Bodies Eshwar Khandre on Wednesday said that considering acute shortage of water in drought-affected areas, the government had decided to forego the tender process, which would otherwise delay the projects.
He said the exemption would be in effect from November 14, 2016 to June 15, 2017. The officials have been asked to draw up an action plan and ensure supply of drinking water through tankers and by extending the water pipelines. Borewells would be sunk wherever necessary, he added.
Karnataka has been reeling under unprecedented drought this year.