Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, May 29: In a significant development, MP Bidyut Baran Mahato met Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, highlighting the urgent need to commence construction work on the Murakati branch canal under the Subarnarekha project. The meeting, held in New Delhi, aimed to address the concerns of farmers in East Singhbhum district who have been deprived of crucial irrigation facilities due to the halt in construction.
During the meeting, MP Mahato drew attention to the recent decision made by the engineers of the State Government’s Water Resources Department, who had agreed to suspend the construction work on the Murakati branch canal, which originates from the Kharkhai Dayi canal. This decision has resulted in an unfortunate setback for the farmers residing in 74 villages, including Musabani, Dumariya, Jaduguda, and Potka.
It has been revealed that substantial funds have already been invested in various components of the project. A staggering 500 crore rupees has been allocated for the construction of the Ganjia Barrage, while an additional 600 crore rupees has been dedicated to the Kharkhai Main Dayi Canal. However, the non-construction of the Murakati Canal has severely hindered the irrigation facilities that were intended to benefit the farmers in the region.
Expressing his concerns, MP Mahato emphasized that the delayed construction of the Murakati branch canal would adversely affect the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and their agricultural activities. He further underscored the fact that the scheme is entirely funded by the Central Government, making any alterations to the approved plan by the state government politically motivated and beyond their jurisdiction. Responding attentively to the concerns raised by MP Mahato, Union Jal Shakti Minister Shekhawat assured him of his commitment to the welfare of the farmers. He pledged to revive the entire scheme and ensure that no compromises are made when it comes to safeguarding the interests of the farming community. Minister Shekhawat went on to affirm that he would direct the officials to take appropriate action, urging the state government to promptly resume the construction of the Murakati canal.