How is Maha CM Fadnavis Ensuring Completion of Stalled Irrigation Projects?

Mumbai, July 30 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday urged the water resources department to expedite the completion of delayed projects, ensuring permanent irrigation for agriculture and enhancing the economic well-being of farmers.

He emphasized the necessity of implementing a new operational framework aimed at elevating the living conditions of residents by enhancing the quality of civic amenities in rehabilitated villages.

During a review of land acquisition for ongoing irrigation projects, CM Fadnavis noted that the government is rolling out numerous schemes and initiatives to elevate farmers' living standards. Irrigation projects are in progress to supply water for agriculture, with a tender process initiated after 18 years to finalize several projects.

Emphasizing the importance of the Kalu River Project in Thane district for the water supply strategy of the city, he urged for its swift completion.

Upon completion, this project will secure a sustainable drinking water source for the metropolis. He advised District Collectors to propose alternative lands for forests affected by this initiative. After assessing the tree damage, he called for afforestation efforts in the respective district.

“To effectively address the issues concerning internal roads in rehabilitated villages, these roads should be constructed using cement concrete. Additionally, there should be closed drainage systems for sewage. This approach will ensure a consistent water supply in rehabilitated villages, necessitating the identification of water sources and the execution of the appropriate plans,” stated the Chief Minister.

CM Fadnavis instructed District Collectors to prioritize the swift execution of land acquisition processes for irrigation projects in districts currently undergoing land acquisition, urging immediate availability of land for these projects.

“Once the project is finalized, the irrigation capacity of the district will enhance, ensuring sustainable irrigation for agriculture. This will undoubtedly contribute to improving farmers' living standards,” he remarked. He also directed that land acquisition for the next phase of the Jigaon project be completed without delay.

According to a government release, there are currently 57 irrigation projects in progress across the state under the Water Resources Department. A total of 1,06,513 hectares of land is required for these projects, with land acquisition for 27,755 hectares still pending. Additionally, 210 gaothans are undergoing rehabilitation, with 116 already rehabilitated and the process for 94 currently in progress. Upon completion, the state will gain irrigation capacity over 6,68,267 hectares and a water storage capacity of 78.90 TMC.