Silvester D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur

Kundapur, Dec 31: Farmers in the region are growing increasingly frustrated as the much-awaited water release from the Varahi Irrigation Scheme is delayed, jeopardising their paddy and vegetable crops. Despite the new year approaching, water has not been released into the canals, leaving farmers with no choice but to wait.

The Udupi District Farmers' Association had urged the Varahi Irrigation Corporation to release water by early December. However, as in previous years, the corporation failed to meet this deadline. The delay in canal maintenance and essential checks has further compounded the issue, leaving farmers struggling to proceed with their sowing activities.

Farmers rely on the Varahi scheme for water by the end of November or early December to ensure optimal crop growth. The continued delay in water release is causing major setbacks, as many farmers had already begun their sowing in anticipation of the irrigation supply.

With a strong focus on providing water for drinking purposes in other regions, farmers fear the original agricultural objectives of the Varahi scheme are being sidelined. The lack of timely water has led to rising frustration among farmers, who are demanding action from the government and irrigation officials.

The ongoing delay casts doubt on the reliability of the irrigation system, which was initially designed to support agriculture in the region.