Officials to Ensure Irrigation Water Reaches Tail-End Farmers
He reviewed the distribution of irrigation water during the ongoing Kharif season, the condition of canals and requirements of the ayacut areas.
Visakhapatnam:Agriculture minister Kinjaraapu Atchannaidu has directed officials of the Vamsadhara irrigation department to ensure “not a single drop of irrigation water is wasted” and that water reaches even the tail-end lands of farmers.
The minister held a detailed review meeting with senior engineering officials of the Vamsadhara project in Nimmada on Monday. He reviewed the distribution of irrigation water during the ongoing Kharif season, the condition of canals and requirements of the ayacut areas.
Addressing the officials, Atchannaidu said that the water released through the Vamsadhara left main canal should be utilised effectively without wastage. Officials must continuously monitor the supply so that every acre, including the last stretches up to Palasa, receives adequate irrigation water.
“Based on rainfall and inflows into the project, officials should prepare advance plans to meet the irrigation needs. Surplus water should not go waste into the sea and must be utilised to the maximum extent for agricultural purposes,” he said.
The minister directed officials to keep a close watch on weak canal bunds and outlets to prevent water leakages. They must take preventive measures in vulnerable locations to avoid breaches.
He also stressed the need to prevent water theft and ensure equitable distribution among farmers along the canal network. Field-level staff should work with commitment and avoid any negligence.
“The welfare of farmers is the government’s top priority. There should be no complaints from farmers on irrigation water supply,” Atchannaidu said.
Senior irrigation officials were present in the review meeting. Officials submitted details regarding canal modernisation works and immediate repair requirements in various constituencies to the minister.
