SYDNEY, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- The New South Wales (NSW) State government in Australia announced it would fast-track a range of critical water infrastructure projects on Wednesday, in a desperate bid to save drought-stricken communities from running out of water.
With a number of rural towns staring down the barrel of what many are referring to as 'zero day', some experts warned it may only be six months before many communities completely dry up with no drinking water left.
"Unprecedented times call for unprecedented measures," Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said.
"NSW is struggling through record low rainfall with 98 percent of the State in drought."
"Our priority is to combat 'day zero' and this legislation, introduced by the NSW Liberals and Nationals in government, will do exactly that."
Mainly targeting river projects and the construction of dams, the temporary legislation means that water infrastructure development will be given priority over all construction proposals.
"This legislation is a game changer for our drought-affected communities," Barilaro said.
"Not only does it make sure towns will not run out of water while waiting for approvals, it also ensures three large scale dams are fast tracked to increase water storage in regional NSW."
Set to be in effect for two years, Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said there is also the potential to extend the legislation for a further 12 months if needed.
"This government has invested more than 1.8 billion Australian dollars (1.2 billion U.S. dollars) over five years to support regional communities through the drought, including more than 130 million Australian dollars (88 million U.S. dollars) for emergency water infrastructure projects to protect over 180,000 residents in regional towns," she said.
"This temporary legislation is essential in ensuring that planning and construction can be completed before towns run out of water."
