Zilla Parishad member presses for third pump at Dhapewada lift irrigation scheme to save paddy

Farmers in the Kawlewada Zilla Parishad area of Tirora taluka are not getting enough water for farming from Phase No. 1 of the Dhapewada lift irrigation scheme. Farmers in the area are in difficulty, and with the paddy crop in its final stage, there is a fear of crop loss for want of water.

Taking note of the serious situation, Zilla Parishad member Kiran Kumar Pardhi went to Bhandara with farmers and met Mr Pakmode, executive engineer of the mechanical division. He firmly demanded, through a memorandum, that the third pump be started so that the paddy gets water immediately.

Farmers in 12 to 15 villages in the area, including Kawlewada, Pujaritola, Mararatola, Mandvi, Mundipar, Sonali, Biroli, Chandori, Bhambodi and Chirekhani, depend on Phase No. 1 of the Dhapewada lift irrigation scheme for irrigation. However, as the water supply is currently not adequate, the growth of the paddy is likely to be affected. Farmers have raised these crops by taking loans, incurring heavy expenses and putting in hard work. At this decisive stage, the same crops are in danger for want of water.

If water runs short when the paddy is close to harvest, farmers could face heavy financial loss. The department concerned therefore needs to recognise the gravity of the situation and take urgent measures. It is expected that starting the third pump will provide more water for irrigation and bring relief to farmers.

During the meeting, Pardhi briefed the officials concerned on the farmers' difficulties and demanded that the third pump be started immediately. He also made it clear that, rather than only giving assurances, water supply should actually begin and the necessary action should be taken to get water to the farmers' fields.

Saving the farmers' paddy is the most important need at present. A demand has therefore been made that the administration start the third pump without delay and resolve the irrigation problem urgently.

Pardhi said he would keep pursuing the matter for the water that is the farmers' right. He resolved to keep raising the issue until the necessary action is taken to prevent damage to the paddy. Farmers in the area are now watching how promptly the department acts on this demand.