Inadequate water supply delays agricultural activities, say farmers
Source: The Sangai Express
Thoubal, June 25 2024:
The inadequate supply of water in Thoubal canal has added more woes to the farmers of the region who have not yet recovered from the extensive damage caused by the hailstorm in May.
While speaking to this correspondent, the farmers highlighted that they are facing immense challenges in carrying out agricultural activities due to insufficient water supply amid this peak season of cropping season.
The farmers further stated that 'the relevant departments of Agriculture has not yet distributed paddy and urea for pre kharif and kharif season this year' .
The farmers also expressed that 'there is no sign of implementation of farmers' welfare schemes this year' .
They maintained that most of the paddy fields in Thoubal district are facing water crisis hindering agricultural activities.
The absence of facilities for rain water storage in paddy fields aggravates the situation.
In addition, the excess growth of weeds in these paddy fields is a major concern for the farmers, they remarked.
Regarding water supply in canals, the farmers said, 'There has been no supply of water for the Thoubal side from the Thoubal Multipurpose Project left canal this season' .
Above all, no relevant measures have been taken up by the departments concerned to provide water to paddy fields of Yairipok Singha, Wangkhem, Phoudel, Kshetri Leikai, Thoubal, Nongangkhong, Ningombam Sabaltongba and Moijing villages, the fanners highlighted.
Amid this peak time of cropping season, the Sub Divisional Office of Thoubal Project remains closed due to absence of its staff, said the farmers.
Stating that the regular supply of water through Thoubal canal has led to successful production of agricultural crops earlier, the farmers raised concern that the farming activities have been delayed due to inadequate supply of water this season which is really unfortunate.