Erode farmers seek water release to save crops, coconut trees in Lower Bhavani ayacut
Farmers in the Erode region are urging the Water Resources Department to release water from the Lower Bhavani Project canal to save wilting crops and provide for livestock. They claim that inequitable water distribution has caused a prolonged crisis for over 18 months.
Why it matters
This reflects the ongoing struggle for water security in agricultural regions and the potential for civil unrest due to resource mismanagement.
Lower Bhavani Project (LBP) canal ayacut farmers have urged the Water Resources Department to release adequate water to prevent further damage to standing crops and coconut trees, and ensure water availability for cattle, amid a prolonged shortage in several parts of the region.
In a petition submitted to the Superintending Engineer, Water Resources Department, Bhavani Basin Circle, Erode, at the Collectorate here on Monday, the farmers said 1,03,500 acres served by the “even-numbered” sluice gates of the canal had not received water for irrigation for more than 18 months. The prolonged shortage had left several areas facing severe drought, they said.
The farmers said the shortage was affecting coconut and other perennial crops, with coconut trees wilting in several places. They were also struggling to provide water for cattle, while some areas were facing an emerging drinking water crisis.
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