Raichur

Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha district president Prabhakar Patil warned that farmers may be forced to launch an agitation if adequate water does not reach tail-end areas of the Narayanpur Right Bank Canal.

Speaking at a press conference at the travellers’ bungalow, Patil said farmers had requested water release from April 1 to 10 without using the rotational (warabandi) system. However, the Irrigation Advisory Committee has approved water supply only from April 1 to 7. While he welcomed the partial decision, Patil stressed that extending water till April 10 is crucial, as mismanagement at canal gates is leaving tail-end farmers without sufficient water.

He alleged that officials assigned to monitor canal issues are neglecting their duties by not visiting the fields. Patil said crops such as paddy, bajra, and groundnut are drying up due to water shortages. Despite annual protests, authorities have failed to find a lasting solution.

Patil also highlighted crop losses caused by unseasonal hailstorms affecting hundreds of acres and urged the administration to conduct a joint survey and provide adequate compensation to affected farmers.

He further criticised delays in the ₹1,444-crore canal modernisation project and demanded its completion before summer to ensure reliable water supply.

Several farmer leaders were present at the press conference, supporting Patil’s call for immediate action. He reiterated that without prompt intervention, tail-end farmers will have no choice but to resort to agitation to protect their crops and livelihoods.

The leader urged the administration to act swiftly, balance water distribution fairly, and implement long-term measures to prevent recurring water shortages, ensuring the prosperity of farmers across the district.