Ganjam, Nov 2 (UDN): Nearly 23 iron shutter plates damaged at the Janibili anicut following recent floods; repair work underway as farmers fear disruption to irrigation and drinking water supply in Ganjam.
Farmers and residents in Odisha’s Ganjam district are facing growing concerns over a possible water crisis after the Janibili anicut suffered significant damage during the recent floods.
The damage to the irrigation structure has disrupted the normal flow of water through its canal system, raising fears that agricultural activities and drinking water supplies could be affected if the repairs are not completed on time.
Several iron shutter plates of the anicut have reportedly been damaged, allowing water to escape through the affected section. Locals fear that continued leakage could significantly reduce the water available in the canal over the next few days.
The Janibili anicut plays an important role in supplying water to Berhampur and several other areas in southern Ganjam, making its restoration a major concern for residents and farmers.
23 Shutter Plates Damaged, Repair Operations Underway
According to local sources, around 23 iron shutter plates have been affected by the floodwaters, leaving the structure vulnerable to further water loss.
Repair and restoration work is currently underway at the site. Three JCB machines have reportedly been deployed to assist the operation, while workers are placing sandbags along the damaged section to control the flow of water and prevent further leakage.
A local commuter said the flood had caused a breach in the anicut, allowing water to flow towards the southern side of Berhampur.
He expressed concern that the canal could run dry within a few days if the damage was not repaired quickly.
Locals said the damage occurred around five days ago and urged the authorities to expedite restoration work to prevent a larger water crisis.
Farmers Fear Setback To Cultivation
The damage has triggered anxiety among farmers who depend on the anicut’s water supply for agricultural activities.
With irrigation water potentially declining, cultivators fear that their crops could suffer if the canal fails to receive adequate water in the coming days.
Farmers have also expressed concern over the possible impact on drinking water availability in nearby areas.
“If there is no water, how will we cultivate? We may not even get enough water to drink. This water is supplied to Berhampur and the southern areas. If the supply stops, farmers will suffer badly,” a farmer said.
For the farming community, the timing of the damage has added to the concern, as any prolonged disruption could affect agricultural operations and livelihoods.
Residents Seek Early Restoration
Residents have urged the authorities to complete the repair work without delay, pointing out that the Janibili anicut is an important water source for several areas.
They fear that unless the damaged shutter plates are restored and the leakage controlled, the consequences could extend beyond irrigation to affect essential water requirements.
While restoration efforts are underway, farmers and residents are hoping for swift intervention to ensure that the canal system returns to normal and water supplies are protected.
The immediate priority remains repairing the damaged structure, preventing further water loss and ensuring that farmers and households in the region do not face a prolonged shortage.
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