GANDERBAL: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, along with Minister for Agriculture Production Department and Rural Development Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Friday conducted an extensive on-the-spot inspection of various areas of Ganderbal district to assess the availability of irrigation water and review the functioning of irrigation facilities across the district.
The objective of the visit was to ensure adequate water supply to the agricultural lands and addressing the concerns of farmers, particularly in tail-end areas. The areas covered during the inspection included Warpora, Waqura, Nowbugh, Tulmullah, Waskura, Safapora, Shuhama, Buserbugh and several other localities across the district.
During the inspection, the Ministers interacted with the farmers and local residents to obtain first-hand feedback regarding irrigation facilities and water availability. Accompanied by the Chief Engineer and other senior officers of the Jal Shakti and other allied departments, they reviewed the ground situation and directed the concerned officials to immediately address all bottlenecks affecting the smooth supply of irrigation water.
Interacting with the farmers, Javed Rana emphasized that agriculture remains the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and the primary source of livelihood for a vast section of the population. “Agriculture is the mainstay of the people across the Kashmir Valley and the welfare of our farmers remains of utmost importance for the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Safeguarding farmers’ interests and ensuring the timely availability of irrigation water are among our foremost priorities and are committed to extend every possible support to the farming community,” Rana assured.
Rana stressed the need to optimize water-use efficiency through improved irrigation management, enhanced monitoring of irrigation infrastructure and timely maintenance of canals and water channels.
Javid Ahmad Dar, during his interaction with the farmers, observed that water is the most critical resource for agriculture and that its efficient management is essential for sustaining farm productivity and ensuring long-term agricultural growth. He assured the farming community that the government is closely monitoring the situation and that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure uninterrupted irrigation facilities and address genuine grievances without delay.
