GUWAHATI: The Assam government’s irrigation department is facing intense scrutiny over its management of the state’s irrigation infrastructure, which is vital for supporting Assam’s agriculture. Concerns are growing as the government appears indifferent to the deteriorating condition of irrigation schemes throughout the state.
Assam’s Irrigation Minister, Ashok Singhal, recently assessed the department’s flagship initiatives, highlighting the need to sustain traditional irrigation systems such as Dong Bundh. However, critics argue that the government’s promises are not reflected in action. The Dhanasiri irrigation project in Udalguri and the Hatimura irrigation project in Nagaon are prime examples of governmental neglect.
At the Dhanasiri project, a buildup of boulders, sand, and trees has disrupted water supply to farms, affecting approximately 40,000 farmers. In response, Minister Singhal instructed officials to survey flood-affected areas and repair canals to ensure the effective operation of irrigation projects. “The government is committed to accelerating development and delivering citizen-centric schemes with transparency and efficiency,” Singhal stated.
Nevertheless, there are growing doubts about the government’s ability to fulfill its commitments. The irrigation department’s infrastructure is in disarray, and its response to current challenges has been lacking. Although the minister emphasizes the importance of inclusive development and timely benefits for citizens, the real situation tells a different story.
Flagship government programs, such as Orunodoi 3.0, which provides financial assistance to women in low-income households, are seen as insufficient to tackle the more profound issues plaguing the state’s irrigation infrastructure. There is an urgent need for the government to take tangible action to alleviate the irrigation crisis and better support farmers.
Amid the ongoing flood situation affecting several districts, Minister Singhal has urged officials to ramp up support operations and offer relief to impacted families. The government must ensure a prompt and effective response to this crisis and strengthen irrigation infrastructure to avert future disasters.
Original Source: https://www.guwahatiplus.com/assam/assams-irrigation-woes-a-system-in-disarray
Category: Assam
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-07-30 21:14:00
