Pressing Need for a Desalination Plant in Los Angeles
By Syed A. Qaisar
Walnut, CA

 

The lingering drought in California has had a devastating effect all around. It has escalated the cost of produce - including meat, fish and milk. We are facing mandatory restriction in water usage or else pay fine. The turf and gardens at homes and parks have turned pale. Shallow water level in lakes and rivers threatens the endangered species.

The hard liners in both the political parties are unyielding. Some are more concerned to save the salmon, rather than mitigate the suffering of the teeming millions. It remains to be seen as to which party demonstrates maturity and rises above partisanship.

We cannot depend on mother nature. What if the drought persists? Granted that there are no easy solutions, but we urgently need a desalination plant for Los Angeles. San Diego's plant is already in the works. Additional funding by the Federal Government is imperative.

I congratulate Senator Feinstein for introduction of the $1.3 billion California drought -relief bill. It has the support of Senator Boxer. Brown's natural resources Secretary praised the additional funding in Feinstein's proposal. He added that many provisions of her bill "align with the State goals to increase recycling, conservation and water shortage."

I urge the Congress and the Senate to pass the bill without delay. The drought-stricken residents of Los Angeles look up to their representatives to act swiftly for a desalination plant in Los Angeles. Justice delayed is justice denied.