Barmer MP meets farmers protesting over canal water shortage

Jaisalmer: MP from Barmer, Ummedaram Beniwal Monday met the farmers who have been on indefinite strike since Feb 4 at Zero RD in the Jaisalmer canal area over severe shortage of irrigation water. Beniwal heard their grievances and held discussions on possible solutions. The protesters said the agitation will continue till adequate irrigation water is released into the canals. They alleged that despite repeated assurances from the administration, water is still not reaching the tail end, leaving crops at risk. Beniwal said farmers have been submitting memorandums and holding peaceful dharnas, demanding regular supply as per their share, but alleged that the govt and the department concerned have neglected the issue. He said this is injustice and the govt must find a permanent solution for the canal area of Jaisalmer district. He also suggested that water available during the rainy season should be stored instead of being wasted. He said he would work for a solid policy and plan to address recurring shortages. From the dharna site, Beniwal spoke to senior officials of the Indira Gandhi Canal Project and the irrigation department and asked them to ensure adequate and regular water supply within the next two days. He warned them that if the issue stays unresolved then the farmers may intensify the protest and launch a mahapadav. Beniwal said he also spoke to Additional Chief Secretary Abhay Kumar of the Water Resources Department and proposed a meeting in Jaipur on Feb 18, between farmer representatives and departmental officials. Farmer leader Sahaban Khan said a symbolic dharna was held at district level on Jan 27, after which the administration assured release of 1400 cusecs of water until Feb 6 and 1700 cusecs thereafter. Based on this assurance, the dharna was suspended, but water flowed for only two days before the canals dried up again, he said, undermining farmers' trust. Congress district president Amardin Fakir said the shortage has pushed farmers into distress, with standing crops drying for the past month.