Despite spending, flood-prone areas growing in state: RJD MP
Buxar: RJD MP, Sudhakar Singh, on Tuesday criticised state's water resources department, alleging that despite spending over Rs 80,000 crore on flood control and irrigation in the past two decades, the drainage capacity has declined by 25% and flood-prone areas have increased.
Addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, the MP claimed that during Rabri Devi govt in 2005, 12.5 lakh hectares of land had irrigation facilities, but this has now decreased to 9.5 lakh hectares. Despite an annual expenditure of over Rs 4,000 crore on flood control, the area affected by floods has increased, he said.
He alleged that change in the tradition of releasing water in canals before May 15 during the 'Rohini Nakshatra' by the govt would delay sowing of paddy.
"The new schedule, extending canal operations until June 15, is expected to delay sowing, reduce crop yields and threaten food security," he said.
He said the Sone canal system, which is crucial for several districts, is not performing well. While Indrapuri Barrage used to release 9,000 cusecs of water, it now releases only 3,000 cusecs. Additionally, 1,158 million cubic meters of water in the Van Sagar agreement with Uttar Pradesh remain untapped.
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by Taboola
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The MP demanded an independent high-level inquiry into the Rs 80,000 crore expenditure, restoration of the previous canal water release schedule, prioritisation of farmers' challenges, and accountability for officials and leaders involved in 'mismanagement'.
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