Silvester D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network - Byndoor

Byndoor, Oct 25: Tensions flared during a public meeting organized by the Heeranjalu Shri Durga Ganeshotsava Committee in Kambadakone gram panchayat limits, as two groups clashed over the failure of the Heeranjalu Lift Irrigation Project and the resulting hardships faced by local farmers. The situation turned chaotic for a while, with pushing and shoving between the groups. However, timely intervention by police officers brought the situation under control, allowing the meeting to proceed.

One group raised concerns about the unscientific implementation of the lift irrigation project, which has been causing significant difficulties for local farmers. They presented their arguments before the officials, but another group opposed them. During the altercation, S Prakashchandra Shetty, president of the Kambadakone Farmers' Service Cooperative Society and a prominent farmer leader, had his microphone snatched, leading to a scuffle.

Farmers highlighted several issues, including the unscientific construction of the dam and jackwell, lack of proper information provided to farmers, and the absence of a notice board about the project. They also pointed out that water from the dam has already seeped into low-lying areas, damaging crops. Despite this, no compensation has been provided to affected farmers. Additionally, incorrect information has been circulated, such as claims that 1,000 acres of land are used for paddy cultivation in the area. Farmers also criticized the lack of proper land acquisition, survey, and water management committee formation. They alleged that officials are carrying out the work unscientifically, leading to waterlogging in low-lying fields.

S Prakashchandra Shetty strongly criticized the officials, demanding that no harm should come to farmers in the project area. He insisted that measures be taken to prevent water from seeping into paddy fields, compensation be provided for crop losses, and a written assurance be given that no cess will be imposed on paddy farmers in the command area. He also called for the jackwell to be relocated to a lower level and urged that work be halted until senior officials provide accurate information.

Local MLA Gururaj Shetty, who attended the meeting, emphasized that the Gantihole project, worth approximately Rs 70 crore, is a significant initiative for the village. He urged residents to make the best use of the project and suggested that adjustments be made to ensure it benefits the community. He stressed that officials should address public demands and form a citizens' committee to resolve issues. He also called for a meeting of village leaders and officials to make necessary decisions.

Echoing these sentiments, S Prakashchandra Shetty demanded a meeting under the leadership of the MLA to address issues such as the jackwell installation, compensation for farmers, unscientific work, and exemptions for paddy farmers from cess.

Farmers at the meeting expressed their frustration over water from the project flooding agricultural lands, causing extensive crop damage. They demanded adequate compensation and preventive measures to avoid future losses.

Assistant engineer of the minor irrigation department Puneeth responded to farmers' queries during the meeting.

The meeting was attended by Kambadakone gram panchayat president Nagamma Devadiga, Kaltodu gram panchayat president Annappa Shetty, development officers, farmer leaders, and department officials, including Sudhakar Shetty.