Is the DMK Government Neglecting the Damaged Check Dam in Tiruchirapalli?
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Synopsis
Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagendran criticizes the DMK government for neglecting a check dam in Tiruchirapalli, affecting local farmers. He urges immediate repair and highlights broader agricultural issues. Will the government take action?
Key Takeaways
- Negligence by the DMK government has led to significant agricultural distress.
- The check dam's poor construction is a major issue.
- Farmers are suffering crop losses due to irrigation failures.
- The need for swift government intervention is critical.
- BJP emphasizes the importance of farmers' rights and welfare.
Chennai, Aug 7 (IANS) The president of Tamil Nadu BJP, Nainar Nagendran, has vehemently condemned the DMK government for its alleged failure to repair a damaged check dam in the vicinity of Alagiri Puram within Tiruchirapalli district. This check dam, built over the Kollidam river at a cost of approximately Rs 7 crore last year, remains in disrepair, causing substantial difficulties for local agriculturalists.
Nagendran remarked in a statement released on Thursday that the state government's “indifference” has led to the wastage of crucial rainwater, which should have been accumulated for irrigation but is instead flowing into the ocean.
A video depicting distressed farmers protesting in the river has gained traction online, highlighting the urgent issues facing the farming community.
He accused the DMK administration of utilizing inferior materials in the construction of the check dam and neglecting necessary repairs.
“The government’s negligence has jeopardized the livelihoods of farmers who rely on the dam for irrigation. This is not mere negligence; it is an attack on the farmers’ right to sustain themselves,” Nagendran stated.
He further emphasized the broader agricultural challenges in the state, noting that paddy stored in poorly maintained godowns is getting ruined by rain.
Nagendran also highlighted the inadequate upkeep of irrigation canals, which remain blocked and dry, exacerbating crop losses and increasing distress among farmers.
The BJP leader criticized what he labeled the DMK government’s persistent disregard for farmers' welfare.
“On every aspect—storage, irrigation, or compensation—the government has faltered. Farmers have voiced their concerns repeatedly, yet their pleas have gone unheard,” he added.
He urged Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to promptly address the demands of the protesting farmers in Alagiri Puram and to swiftly restore the damaged check dam.
Additionally, he called for a thorough evaluation of all pending and damaged check dams across Tamil Nadu, demanding that construction and repairs be expedited.
“The government needs to take immediate action to avert further agricultural losses and re-establish trust among our farmers,” Nagendran concluded.
Point of View
The plight of farmers is a critical concern that deserves immediate attention. The ongoing negligence highlighted by the BJP raises serious questions about government accountability and responsibility towards agricultural welfare. It is vital for authorities to prioritize the needs of farmers, ensuring their rights to essential resources are upheld.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the damage to the check dam?
The check dam was reportedly constructed with substandard materials, leading to its current state of disrepair.
How has the damage affected local farmers?
Local farmers rely on the check dam for irrigation, and its damage has resulted in significant hardships and crop losses.
What actions has the BJP called for?
The BJP has called for immediate repairs to the check dam and a comprehensive review of all similar infrastructure across Tamil Nadu.
What is the estimated cost of the check dam?
The check dam was constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 7 crore.
How have farmers expressed their concerns?
Farmers have taken to protests, including staging demonstrations in the river, to voice their grievances.
