Lift irrigation scheme in Pulwama’s Chakoora still incomplete even after 1o years
Revised cost estimate submitted, approval awaited: Official
Pulwama: Even after a lapse of nearly ten years, a major lift irrigation project in Chakoora village of Litter Tehsil, Pulwama district, remains unfinished—leaving farmers without a vital source of water for their orchards, locals alleged Wednesday.
They said that though the project was sanctioned years ago following persistent public demand, the initial work began promptly but the progress was stalled abruptly and has remained suspended for the last four years.
“About 80% of the construction was done, but since then, no further progress has been made,” said Aabid Ahmad, a resident of the village.
“We have no irrigation facilities and are entirely dependent on rainwater, which is highly unreliable—especially during dry spells like the one we’re currently facing,” he added.
He explained that many orchardists had cut down water-efficient almond trees to plant apple trees, assuming the scheme would be completed and water made available.
“Now, the lack of water is badly affecting the apple yield, both in quality and quantity,” he said.
The farmers said their produce is shrinking in size, lacking flavor, and overall yields are down. Trees are beginning to wither in the heat, compounding their worries.
Adding to their woes, locals who donated land for the project at nominal rates have still not received compensation.
“Despite raising the issue several times, there’s been no response from the concerned authorities,” they said.
During the ongoing heatwave, the lack of irrigation has hit growers hard. “We can’t irrigate our orchards, and there’s nowhere else to turn,” a local farmer said.
An official from the department confirmed that the civil and mechanical wings have jointly submitted a revised estimate of approximately Rs 70 lakh for completing the remaining work.
“Around 80% of the project is already done. We’re currently awaiting approval of the revised cost estimate. Hopefully, work will resume soon,” he added.
