Rising water level in Sirhind Canal, bank erosion leave locals worried

Mahesh Sharma

Malerkotla, July 10

Residents living on both sides of the tributaries of Sirhind Canal were apprehensive about water overflowing in case more water was released in already swollen canals.

Similar situation had arisen last year, when breaches developed following massive release of water from Bhakra Dam. Breaches developed at Khatra Chuharam, Rohira and Kup Khurad were plugged by locals under the supervision of the then SDM, Ahmedgarh, Harbans Singh.

Though no immediate alert was flagged by the Canal Department, elected office- bearers and activists of various rural and urban civic bodies, besides officials of Municipal Councils and Block Development Officers were asked to keep materials and equipment ready for plugging possible breaches that might develop during the monsoon.

The SDO (Irrigation), Divanshu Sharma, claimed that proactive measures had already been taken to handle any situation arising due to extra release of water during the forthcoming monsoon season. “Though we have received no alert from the higher authorities or any requisition from the residents of any locality situated along the branches of the Sirhind Canal, we have already prepared sand bags and machinery required for plugging any probable breach,” said Sharma. He also said they had taken necessary measures to strengthen the banks. The task was being carried out by the MGNREGA labourers after undertaking patrolling of concerned banks.

Organising ‘theekri pehra’, preparing sand bags, keeping tractors-trailers ready for dealing emergencies and making frequent announcements regarding the advisory on the issue emerged as the general proactive tips for the residents during the monsoon season, he said.

As the residents are not well versed with the technicalities of the Canal Department, they panic as soon as the water level rises in the canals and brooks passing through their respective areas, he said.

The residents said they were also upset that the successive governments had failed to take up their cause of strengthening and repairing the structures constructed near the villages for using canal water, for bathing cattle and laundry purposes.

The condition of banks and ghats near Jandali Bridge, Damdama Sahib Gurdwara and Khatra Chuharam is worst and is risky for the residents who come in large numbers during Chhath Puja, Dasehra and Baisakhi festivals.