WB Govt formulates index for irrigation water distribution

To serve the farmers in a more effective way, State Irrigation Minister Rajib Banerjee and his department has formulated a water index wherein the farmers will be made aware about the source and time frame of availability of irrigation water. This system will be launched for Rabi and Boro cultivation this year.

The state’s various water projects have been brought under this programme. Water from rivers, dams, underground sources among others will be made available for cultivation through canals and drainage network.

Water distribution for the Rabi cultivation has already started. In 18 districts over 100 blocks 5,10,182 acres of land will be covered as per this index for the Rabi season. For Boro season this area will be 2,49,524 acres. A detailed programme has been chalked out under the slogan ‘Secher Jol, Chashir Bol’.

Mega irrigation project for six districts in Bengal

To prevent loss of cultivation due to water shortage, the State Government has to launch a mega irrigation project and has allotted Rs 100 crore for the same.

The government will construct 500 water reservoirs in six districts – Purulia, Bankura, Bardhaman, Pashchim Medinipur, Howrah and Hooghly. Along with these, in areas where DVC water does not reach sufficiently, the agriculture department will be installing tube wells.

Irrigation Minister Rajib Banerjee informed, “These reservoirs are being constructed to catch rain water so that there is no effect on cultivation due to lack of water.” Construction of 58 such reservoirs has started in Purulia, the Minister informed.