Waterbodies in Sivaganga district get a big boost; Govt sanctions ₹34 crore to desilt 442 minor tanks

Sivaganga district receives ₹34 crore for desilting tanks, strengthening bunds to ensure ample water for irrigation.

Sivaganga district, known for its large presence of ‘Ooranis’ and tanks, is getting a fresh impetus with the government sanctioning ₹34 crore with which the waterbodies would be desilted and bunds strengthened, said Minister for Cooperation KR Periakaruppan here on Thursday.

Flagging off the works at Maruthan tank in Kolunjipatti village in Kattambur panchayat, he said that the farmers can be rest assured of getting ample water for irrigation from these waterbodies, which are now being repaired. Very soon, the 400 plus minor tanks would be in a position to accommodate more water. This would help recharge the groundwater and also pave way to conserve water for irrigation and consumption.

Appreciating District Collector Asha Ajith, for her commendable work in giving such a focus, the Minister said that the Collector’s follow-up and involvement had roped in donors to come forward to contribute liberally. For farmers who had grievances of not getting water for irrigation in the tail end areas, it would be a thing of the past, he said with confidence.

The district had already been reviving and desilting tanks in Palar, Saruganiar, Veerusozhiar and among others with the support from philanthropists and NGOs. Many farmers’ associations too have pitched in and the rural development department had earmarked funds for the works.

The officials were hopeful of enhancing the crop coverage in the ensuing season and expected higher production from the farmers. For desilting of Maruthan tank, the government had earmarked ₹4 lakh and thus the bunds would also be strengthened.

Welcoming the pro-active approach of the district administration, the farmers’ associations have welcomed and wished the storage capacity in the ooranis would increase manifold and there may not be issues regarding water for irrigation.

K. Vanathi, Project Director (District Rural Development Agency), Executive Engineer Anuradha and other officials participated.