Kachakoot irrigation scheme fails to benefit farmers even after four decades
Pulwama: The Kachakoot Irrigation Scheme in Awantipora-Tral area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, which was conceived decades ago to provide a reliable water supply to agricultural lands, has become a symbol of unfulfilled promises, with residents alleging that despite being completed long ago, the project has failed to deliver water to farmlands even after nearly four decades.
Locals from the area expressed deep resentment over what they described as the persistent failure of the irrigation scheme to serve its intended purpose. They said that although government departments regularly undertake restoration, maintenance, and desilting works on the canal every year, the benefits of these efforts remain invisible on the ground.
According to residents, substantial public funds are spent annually on cleaning and repairing the canal network. However, they alleged that water rarely reaches the agricultural fields that were meant to benefit from the scheme, leaving farmers dependent on rainfall and other uncertain sources of irrigation.
“Every year we hear about restoration and cleaning works being carried out on the canal. Funds are being spent regularly, but the reality is that water does not reach our agriculture and horticulture fields,” said a local farmer. “The scheme was expected to transform agriculture in the area, but after decades we are still waiting to see its benefits.”
Another resident said that the non-functional irrigation system has adversely affected agricultural productivity and increased the difficulties faced by farming families. “Farmers invest heavily in cultivation, but without proper irrigation facilities, their crops remain vulnerable. The purpose of this project has been defeated,” he said.
The residents maintained that the recurring expenditure on maintenance without any visible improvement has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of the works being undertaken. They alleged that despite repeated representations to the concerned authorities, the issue remains unresolved.
“People deserve to know where and why the money is being spent when the canal continues to remain ineffective. There should be transparency and accountability,” said another local.
Farmers said that the irrigation scheme was originally envisioned to support agriculture in the region and reduce dependence on erratic weather conditions. However, they claimed that the continued non-functionality of the canal has deprived hundreds of cultivators of a dependable water source.
Demanding immediate intervention, residents have called for a thorough investigation into the matter to ascertain why the project has failed to supply water despite repeated maintenance works and expenditure over the years.
They urged the administration to conduct an impartial inquiry, identify any lapses or irregularities, and take strict action against officials found responsible. The residents also demanded that concrete measures be taken to make the irrigation scheme fully operational so that farmers can finally receive the benefits for which the project was established.
“The government must ensure that public money is utilised effectively and that irrigation facilities reach the farmers who need them the most. Accountability must be fixed and the scheme should be made functional without further delay,” the locals said.
