Andhra Pradesh government plans to spend ₹16 crore for the improvement of minor irrigation facilities in Parvatipuram-Manyam district, says Collector
The government has planned to spend around ₹16 crore for the improvement of minor irrigation facilities and maintenance of tanks in the district ahead of the kharif season, Parvatipuram-Manyam District Collector A. Shyam Prasad said, adding that maintenance works are taken up to strengthen the ayacut of 120 tanks and 112 check dams in the district.
Speaking to The Hindu here on Sunday, he said that the initiative would benefit farmers as a majority of areas in the district come under rain-fed zone. Reccently, Mr. Shyam Prasad laid the foundation stone for a feeder channel to ponds at Konkadi Varam village of Garugubilli mandal on a request from the farmers.
'The proper maintenance of tanks and creation of proper feeder channels would improve agriculture activity. The water needs of humans and cattle can also be met. We directed the Irrigation Department officials to complete all the works by June second week so that the water can be stored in the rainy season,' he added.
Mr. Shyam Prasad said that the district administration had given priority to the development of coconut groves in the district with the support of self-help groups. He said that the coconut trees would be planted near water bodies under MGNREGA. 'Coconut plantation will ensure additional income for the farmers. They will reap the benefits for many decades if the coconut plantation is taken care of for at least five years,' the District Collector said.
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