Development Commissioner Visits Gangadhar Meher Lift Irrigation Project in Bargarh

Bhubaneswar/Bargarh: Anu Garg, IAS, Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) to the Government, Department of Water Resources, conducted an on-site review of irrigation projects in the Sambalpur and Bargarh districts today.

During her visit to the Gangadhar Meher Lift Irrigation Project in Bargarh, Garg assessed the progress of the pump house operations, which aim to provide irrigation facilities to the Additional Ayacut area under the project.

She also interacted with office-bearers of Pani Panchayats, including women functionaries, to understand management challenges and provide guidance on the smooth functioning of these community-led irrigation bodies. Emphasizing the importance of the project, Garg discussed its potential to significantly benefit farmers in the region by ensuring better water management and agricultural productivity.

The Development Commissioner inspected outlet flushing works at Dumerpani and Sarandapali, which will facilitate irrigation for 20 hectares and 2 hectares of land, respectively. The Gangadhar Meher Lift Irrigation Project, with a total Additional Ayacut area of 5750 hectares, is set to provide irrigation for the upcoming Kharif season.

To ensure efficient water distribution, the project is equipped with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) technology. Trial irrigation for this Rabi season, covering an area of 2000 hectares, is also planned, marking significant progress in enhancing agricultural sustainability in the region.