How is the Gujarat government boosting irrigation with six new check dams?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat government inaugurated six new check dams.
- Location: Dahegam’s Dharisana village.
- Total investment: Rs 18.07 crore.
- Water storage capacity: 41.89 million cubic feet.
- Over 30 villages will benefit from these dams.
Gandhinagar, May 15 (NationPress) The Gujarat government has initiated a significant advancement in irrigation infrastructure within the Gandhinagar district by launching six newly built check dams located in Dahegam’s Dharisana village.
The ceremony was presided over by Water Resources Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya, who took the opportunity to inspect a crucial check dam constructed over the Khari River, with an investment of Rs 2.33 crore. This endeavor is part of a larger strategy by the state to guarantee sufficient water supply for both drinking and agricultural needs in rural locales.
The six check dams, developed at a total expenditure of Rs 18.07 crore, span across the Meshwo and Khari rivers.
The dams are engineered to hold an approximate volume of 41.89 million cubic feet (MCFT) of water, positively impacting over 350 hectares of farmland across more than 30 villages in Gandhinagar and Dahegam talukas.
During his speech, Minister Bavaliya reiterated the state government's steadfast dedication to ensuring water security throughout Gujarat.
The Minister also outlined plans to broaden the network of check dams, especially in regions that experience water scarcity for irrigation during the hotter months.
In the Gandhinagar district, 14 check dams have been constructed on the Sabarmati River, with four additional structures currently under construction on the Vatrak River to benefit 10 neighboring villages.
On the Meshwo River, one check dam is operational, two were inaugurated during this event, with two more under construction and four additional dams planned. Likewise, on the Khari River, three existing check dams have been enhanced with four newly inaugurated ones, and plans are in place to build three more.
Upon completion of all projects, the enhanced infrastructure is projected to support more than 550 hectares of agricultural land, benefiting around 90 to 95 villages in the vicinity.
The inauguration event also saw attendance from Ahmedabad East MP Hasmukh Patel, Dahegam MLA Balrajsinh Chauhan, Gandhinagar District Panchayat President Shilpaben Patel, local government officials, and senior personnel from the Water Resources Department, including Secretary P.C. Vyas and Chief Engineer M.D. Patel.