Delay in Anathanar canal water release leaves farmers in distress
Following the release of water from the Pechiparai dam on June 1 for the irrigation purposes across the district, farmers continue to express their concerns over the restoration of 'Ulli Odai' brook at the Anathanar canal near Surulacode may further delay the water supply into the canal.
This concern was raised during the farmers' grievance redressal meeting as well. However, the official from the WRD department assured that the brook would be restored shortly and water would be released by the second week of June. During that time the WRD officials attributed the delay to a shortage of materials needed for the restoration work.
Due to continued non-release of water, paddy fields and crops are withering in Siramadamam and other villages of Thovalai taluk. Chenbagasekara Pillai, a farmer of Thuvarankadu stated that around 9,987 acres of agricultural land are being irrigated through Ananthanar canal directly and indirectly. 'The district administration and WRD department are carrying out restoration at their own pace, without considering the plight of farmers and importance of timely irrigation,' he added.
He noted that the paddy varieties sown in the region, mainly 'Ambai 16' and 'TPS 5' have a growth duration of 110 days. With over 35 days already elapsed and no water supply, farmlands have begun to crack due to dryness. 'There will be no use even if the water is released now. The farmers cannot achieve the maximum yield,' said Mr. Chenbagasekara Pillai.
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