IFM team inspects Dam over water supply issue
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 13 2025: A team from the Irabot Foundation Manipur (IFM) conducted an inspection of the left canal of the Thoubal Multipurpose Dam, which has stopped supplying water to the residents of Thoubal.

In a statement, IFM said that the canal was shut down by authorities concerned, resulting in a severe water shortage in areas such as Thoubal Nongbalkhong, Ningombam, Sabaltongba and Moijing under the Thoubal Achouba region.

Consequently, paddy fields in these areas have dried up.

The issue was highlighted in the media, after which an inspection was conducted by a team led by IFM president Kh Gopal Luwang.

IFM team inspects Dam over water supply issue

The purpose of the visit was to understand the reasons behind the canal's closure and explore how the Foundation might assist.

During the inspection, it came to light that the shutter of the left main canal had been closed, causing water supply disruptions in several areas including Ahanba Khun Bumbakhullen, Leirongthel, Chandrakhong and Lousipat.

Upon inquiry, dam authorities informed that water supply had been halted to facilitate repairs of the Drop Fall structure, and that the disruption would last for approximately 15 days.

IFM further stated that its concern lies in ensuring a continuous water supply during this critical stage of paddy cultivation, when the plants are beginning to flower and require adequate irrigation.

A steady flow of water to the fields is essential for proper crop development, the Foundation highlighted.

Meanwhile, the stoppage of water supply from the Yairipok Canal has also caused a significant shortage at a time when paddy plants are in urgent need of irrigation.

In this regard, Pechi Apunba Loumee Lup (PALL) president W Pomshat and secretary W Surendro issued a joint statement.

According to the statement, the Yairipok Canal had supported double cropping at the Pechi Se-lom paddy fields in 2024, helping farmers to boost their income.

This year, too, farmers aimed to increase their yield through double cropping.

However, the interruption in water supply has led to acute shortage, stalling the paddy from bearing grain.

The statement urged authorities concerned to ensure the restoration of water supply from the Yairipok Canal at the earliest.