The Katsina State Government has earmarked N12.3 billion for the completion and rehabilitation of some dam projects to boost water supply and irrigation in the state.

Alhaji Abdullahi Imam, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget and Economic Planning, said this during a news conference on Thursday in Katsina.

He said N5 billion had been set aside for the completion of Zobe water supply project in Dutsin-ma Local Government Area of the state.

Imam said that when completed, the project would improve water supply to Kankia, Charanchi, Bindawa, Rimi Batagarawa and Katsina Local Government Areas.

“Government also sets aside N3 billion for the regional water supply in Danja Local Government Area to boost water supply and irrigation, particularly tomato and sugarcane production.

‘’The tomato paste plant and the sugarcane industries of the state government will have adequate supply of water and raw materials,’’ he said.

The governor’s aide further said that N1.5 billion would be spent on the completion of Malumfashi/Kankara water projects, also to boost water supply and irrigation.

Imam said another N1.5 billion was earmarked for the completion of Ajiwa water works to enhance water supply to Katsina town.

He further said that N1.3 billion would be spent for the drilling of boreholes in all the political wards across the 34 local government areas.

“At least, six boreholes will be drilled in each ward to provide potable water to rural dwellers to reduce outbreak of water related diseases in the state.

“Gov.Bello Masari is a water specialist; that is why he included water supply among the priority sectors of his administration.

“I urge people of the state to continue to pay their taxes, as and when due, to enable government provide more dividends of democracy.’’