Kulgam, Aug 30: The vital Noorabad irrigation channel, essential for orchards and kitchen gardens in Noorabad villages is grappling with significant damage which exacerbates water scarcity for the horticulture sector downstream.
The canal sourced from the mouth of the famous Aharbal Waterfall was damaged weeks before due to heavy rains. The outcome has been a dire shortage of water, acutely felt by the orchards and kitchen gardens that rely on its life-giving flow.
Mushtaq Ahmad, a local of Watoo hamlet, articulated the collective plea of the villagers. He urged the authorities to urgently address the vulnerable sections of the canal and underscored the necessity for strategic interventions that can pre-empt future erosion and washouts.
The Noorabad irrigation channel is more than a mere conduit; it is a lifeline for over 1561 acres of fertile land that stretch across hamlets, including Watoo, Manzgam, Mirwani and many other villages.
The Rural Development Department (RDD) in Kulgam has undertaken the responsibility of resurrecting the canal to its former glory. Despite facing an uphill battle, the personnel at RDD are steadfastly working to mend the breach and rejuvenate the canal.
Mohammad Imran Khan, Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Kulgam told Rising Kashmir that the channel’s ordeal began with the fury of flash floods that struck last month.
He said prompt action was taken under the guidance of the deputy commissioner to restore the canal to its operational state. Tragically, the relentless force of nature showed no respite, and the canal once again fell victim to the ravages of another flash flood.
“The restoration efforts would resume from tomorrow,” he said.
Khan said the restoration process of the irrigation canal, however, is no walk in the park. Working at the precipice of the Aharbal Waterfall demands both skill and courage, as the fierce cascade poses a potent threat, he said.
“The restoration work highlights the need for specialised expertise to navigate the treacherous waters and execute a seamless restoration,” the ACD said.
