The projects consist of the Burdekin Pipeline Project from the Gorge Weir to Moranbah and two smaller pipelines to new and existing mines east and south of Moranbah.

About 300 workers will be employed in construction of the pipelines, which are expected to allow coal production in the Basin to increase to up to 60 million tonnes per annum.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2006 and the Government has moved to ensure there are no setbacks in accessing land or obtaining project approvals.

It has declared the project as ‘works’ under the State Development & Public Works Organisation Act 1971 so relevant powers can be used to make sure it is finished within schedule.

The powers relate to land access and acquisition, opening and closing of roads, environmental coordination and access to construction materials.

Deputy premier Anna Bligh said the Bowen Basin’s main water source, the Eungella Dam, was well below capacity and it was essential the Government did everything in its power to ensure the timely completion of the pipelines.

"The pipelines assist the continued development of our mining industry as well as reduce pressure on existing supplies used by local communities," Bligh said.

The Government recently released a comprehensive plan to meet the state's future water needs for consumption and the environment. It consists of seven strategies to be released over the next five years to ensure the state does not run out of water.

The pipeline projects are also being advanced within the planning framework of the Central Queensland Water Supply Strategy and the Coal Infrastructure Coordination Group, established by the Queensland Government.

Construction on the pipelines will commence as soon as contracts are finalised with mining industry customers.