Canal work hits farmers: Inordinate delay

Hatadihi: Reports said, HSCL, a construction firm, has been awarded Rs 67 crore contract to repair Bidyadharpur-Andapur main canal; Shalania, Hatadihi, Soso, Manoharpur, Mathasahi and Tiguna canals.Even as the government claims that it has undertaken several schemes and projects to boost agriculture in the state, some canal works in Hatadihi block in Keonjhar have been going on for three years.However, the firm had sub-contracted the work to MSIL stipulating that it should be completed within 17 months and farmers should get water. Two sides of the canals were to be strengthened with concrete walls, concrete beds and fillings.

Surprisingly, the MSIL is not executing the work. Locals alleged that the firm has distributed the work to some local youths who have no expertise in construction work, on the basis of commission. It is also alleged that MSIL has abandoned the work, leaving its completion under a cloud.Locals alleged that the work which was supposed to be completed in 17 months is yet to be completed even after three years since its beginning. They have pointed accusing fingers at the efficiency of the Water Resources Department.Farmers alleged that they are unable to grow crops due to unavailability of water from the canal under construction.Zilla parishad member Tiki Kishku and former sarpanch Bailochan Nayak have demanded the intervention of collector to ensure completion of canal work as soon as possible in the larger interest of the farmers.