Relief for Farmers: Gujarat Govt Delays Right Bank Canal Shutdown Amid Crop Damage Concerns

In a significant move to support farmers, the Gujarat government has rolled back its decision to halt irrigation water supply from the Ukai-Kakrapar Right Bank canal for the current year. Originally scheduled for a 90-day shutdown starting December 1 to facilitate repair work, the plan was met with strong opposition from farmer groups citing recent crop damage due to unseasonal rainfall.

A high-level meeting chaired by State Water Supply and Water Resources Minister Ishwar Patel in Gandhinagar led to the reversal. Representatives from Khedut Samaj and other farmer organizations submitted memorandums urging the government to reconsider, emphasizing the urgent need for uninterrupted water access to salvage winter crops.

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Key Highlights:

- Shutdown Deferred:  
  The canal repair and expansion work will be postponed to avoid impacting irrigation during a critical recovery period.

- Farmer Advocacy:  
  Groups like Khedut Samaj organized protests and submitted formal appeals to the government.

- Ministerial Response:  
  Ishwar Patel acknowledged crop losses and assured continued water supply for the season.

- Future Planning:  
  Authorities plan to revisit the repair schedule next year, factoring in agricultural cycles and climate variability.

Sources: Indian Express, All Gujarat News.