Blocked Irrigation Channel Threatens Thousands of Kanals of Paddy Land
Aadil Abdullah
Bandipora, 06-Aug: Farmers in Ajas area in Bandipora district are facing a severe crisis due to the deteriorating condition of the Zajeeri Nallah, a crucial irrigation channel that sustains over 4,000 kanals of agricultural land. The nallah, which has been blocked at multiple points and burdened with illegal bridges, is unable to carry sufficient water to irrigate the paddy fields, causing immense distress to the farmers of the area.
Speaking to the media, Abdul Rahim Bhat, a resident of Bazipora Ajas, highlighted the plight of local farmers. “We have five gunds and approximately 40,000 kanals of agricultural land. Previously, we received water from the Saduna side, but that source is now defunct, destroying our fields. We urgently request the LG administration and concerned authorities to address this issue.”
Bhat added that two years ago, promises were made for vertical pumps to be installed, but no action has been taken. “We approached the concerned Executive Engineer in Sumbal, who assured us that action would be taken to restore water flow to our paddy fields, but nothing has been done so far.”
Residents have repeatedly contacted the relevant department over the past five days, but their concerns have been ignored. They are now appealing to DC Bandipora Shakeel ul Rehman IAS and higher authorities to intervene and resolve their demands promptly.
The farmers hopes that immediate steps will be taken to clear and dredge the Zajeeri Nallah, ensuring a consistent water supply to their fields and preventing further agricultural losses.
