Apple orchardists in Sirhama village, located in the Anantnag district of south Kashmir, have appealed to the government for the immediate operationalisation of a critical lift irrigation scheme. The orchardists stated that the ongoing delay in activating the scheme is severely impacting their fruit crops and overall livelihoods.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the lift irrigation scheme experienced a technical fault on Sunday, leading to its non-functional status. Residents are urging swift government intervention to rectify the issue and restore the scheme to full operation.
According to the orchardists, any further postponement in making the irrigation system operational could result in irreparable damage to the apple trees. They highlighted that the orchards have already been subjected to adverse conditions due to a dry spell, exacerbating the need for reliable irrigation facilities.
The Sirhama area is known for its significant apple production, a key economic driver for the region. The livelihood of many families is directly dependent on the success of the apple harvest. Therefore, the interruption of the lift irrigation scheme poses a substantial threat to their economic stability.
Orchardists explained that the scheme is designed to draw water from a nearby source and distribute it to their fields, particularly crucial during dry periods when natural water sources are insufficient. The breakdown of this vital infrastructure leaves them vulnerable to drought-like conditions, potentially leading to reduced yield and compromised fruit quality.
They have collectively expressed their dismay over the perceived lack of urgency from the authorities in addressing the technical fault. The community fears that if the scheme is not restored promptly, the damage to the trees could have long-term consequences, affecting future harvests as well.
Local representatives have reportedly communicated the concerns of the orchardists to district administration officials. However, as of Monday, no definitive timeline for the repair and recommissioning of the lift irrigation scheme had been provided to the affected community. The orchardists are seeking transparency and a commitment from the administration to expedite the process.
The dry weather conditions in the region have added to the urgency of the situation. Farmers are concerned that without adequate irrigation, the current season’s crop could be significantly diminished, leading to financial hardship for hundreds of families reliant on the apple trade. They emphasized that the timely provision of water is essential for the proper growth and development of apple fruits, ensuring their marketability and value.
The appeal underscores the critical importance of robust agricultural infrastructure, particularly in regions heavily dependent on farming. The orchardists hope that their plea will be heard and acted upon swiftly by the concerned government departments to safeguard their produce and their economic future.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
