Are Farmers from Kangeyam and Vellakovil Ready to Protest for Fair Water Distribution?
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Synopsis
Farmers in Tamil Nadu are preparing for a significant protest on June 24, demanding equitable water distribution. The situation highlights ongoing disputes over irrigation allocations within the Parambikulam-Aliyar Project, raising questions about fairness and resource management in agricultural practices.
Key Takeaways
- Tensions are rising among farmers in Tamil Nadu over water distribution.
- The protest is set for June 24 in Pollachi.
- The PAP Vellakovil Branch Canal Water Conservation Movement is leading the charge.
- Internal conflicts exist among stakeholders regarding water management.
- The PAP system aims for balanced water distribution but faces challenges.
Chennai, June 22 (NationPress) Tensions are heightening in Tamil Nadu’s Parambikulam-Aliyar Project (PAP) irrigation zone as farmers from the Kangeyam and Vellakovil areas have declared their intention to protest on June 24, advocating for equitable water distribution to tail-end regions.
The demonstration, set to occur outside the office of the PAP Superintendent Engineer in Pollachi, is being coordinated by the PAP Vellakovil Branch Canal Water Conservation Movement. The organization claims that farmers situated at the end of the canal system are consistently denied their fair share of irrigation water.
“The PAP framework is intended to facilitate equitable water distribution. However, we are witnessing significant diversion through various upstream branch canals, alongside rampant water theft,” stated P. Velusamy, president of the conservation movement.
“Consequently, tail-end areas like Vellakovil are left without sufficient water. Out of the 12,000 acres relying on our canal, nearly 800 acres have been rendered barren as of Saturday,” Velusamy noted.
He emphasized that the protest aims to highlight what he describes as a systemic failure to resolve long-standing issues. “We are rallying farmers from village to village to unite and demand justice,” Velusamy asserted.
Nonetheless, the planned protest has revealed internal conflicts among PAP stakeholders. The PAP Planning Committee—an elected group managing water resources from the Thirumurthy Dam—has vehemently opposed the demonstration, contending it could stir unnecessary tensions.
“The Vellakovil branch canal is integrated into the broader PAP framework. Following standard practices, 1 cusec of water irrigates 120 acres. For 12,000 acres, they would need 100 cusecs, yet they are currently receiving up to 130 cusecs,” explained Medical K. Paramasivam, Chairman of the PAP Planning Committee.
He further asserted that actual cultivation in the area now spans only around 5,000 acres. “There are instances when water designated for regions like Pongalur and Palladam is redirected to Vellakovil. The upcoming protest could provoke discord among other farmers,” Paramasivam cautioned.
He also pointed out that the PAP water-sharing model is democratically administered through 134 Water Users’ Association (WUA) presidents and nine Distribution Committee chairpersons. “Previously, I secured a court ruling against illegal water tapping. However, with an appeal currently pending, enforcement has become constrained,” he added.
Meanwhile, police officials reported that they have not yet received any formal request from the protesting group for permission to proceed with the demonstration. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to maintain public order.
Point of View
The situation in Tamil Nadu illustrates the complexities of water resource management in agricultural regions. The grievances of farmers highlight the critical need for equitable distribution systems that address the needs of all stakeholders involved.
NationPress
22/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the farmers' protest?
Farmers from Kangeyam and Vellakovil are protesting for equitable water distribution, as they feel that tail-end areas are being deprived of their fair share of irrigation water.
When and where will the protest take place?
The protest is scheduled for June 24 outside the office of the PAP Superintendent Engineer in Pollachi.
Who is organizing the protest?
The protest is being organized by the PAP Vellakovil Branch Canal Water Conservation Movement.
What are the concerns raised by the PAP Planning Committee?
The PAP Planning Committee argues that the Vellakovil branch canal is receiving sufficient water and that the protest could incite unrest among other farmers.
How is water distribution managed in the PAP system?
Water distribution in the PAP system is managed democratically through Water Users’ Associations and Distribution Committees.
