Once a lifeline, clogged canals and ‘toxic’ water plague Kendrapara farmers; administrative apathy alleged

In an agricultural economy, irrigation through canals is a lifeline more so than a necessity. However, for farmers of Kendrapara, this is becoming a distant memory as multiple canals that once used to feed their farms with fresh water have now become clogged with silt and weeds due to alleged administrative apathy.

Sources reported that canals in the Aali region of the district are one of the worst affected with fast-flowing canals either drying up or unable to reach the fields. Aggravating concerns is the fact that farmers are now left without proper irrigation facilities, severely hampering their livelihood as well as agriculture in the region.

“Not a single canal is free of debris and weed. There is no question of water reaching the fields as all channels are clogged and the remaining water has turned toxic after being stagnant for so long,” said Muralidhar Behera, a farmer from the area.

ALSO READ: Elderly man looted in front of police station in Odisha

The reports also added that major canals including Badajor, Talajor, Khajirijor, Khalamahara, and Paikira canals, along with their branch networks, were originally connected to fast-flowing rivers, ensuring irrigation for farmlands in Bharigada panchayat of Rajkanika area the district.

As a result, farmers have long relied on these canals for adequate water supply. However, in recent times, locals have alleged that administrative neglect and lack of proper maintenance have led to severe silt buildup, blocking the flow of water completely and severely hampering cultivation in the region.

“We are completely reliant on the canals to irrigate our fields. Moreover, our entire livelihood depends on these farms but since there is no water, we are unable to grow crops. The clogged water is so toxic that if we feed it to our plants, they die,” claimed Gadadhar Palar, a farmer from Aali.

ALSO READ: Odisha woman poisoned after engagement by fiance’s girlfriend!

Meanwhile, Kendrapara district collector Smruti Ranjan Pradhan said that discussions with relevant departments are underway to take necessary measures for canal restoration.

“We are in talks with the Drain Department for cleaning of the canals and they have begun the process for the same. I will ensure that the de-clogging of the canals brought to my notice by you (OTV) is also taken up by the department this year itself,” assured the collector.

(Reported by Banamali Sahu and Manoj Swain)