Prosperous Tarai irrigation special programme launched

Godawari (Kailali)- Prosperous Tarai/Madhes irrigation special programme has been launched in five districts including Kailali and Kanchanpur of Sudurpaschim Province.

The irrigation special programme was begun at Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolis, Lamkichuha, Godawari municipality, Bardagoriya rural municipality in Kailali while Krishnapur, Punarbas municipality and Laljhadi rural municipality of Kanchanpur. The irrigation is managed with the construction of deep tube wells, according to engineer Salik Bhusal, information officer at Mahakali Irrigation Management Office.

Surkhet of Karnali Province, Banke and Bardiya of Lumbini Province have been running similar facilities under the special programme. Irrigation in 40 hectares of land from five districts including Kanchanpur is aimed in the current fiscal year, 2080/81, he added. For its implementation, Rs 70 million has been allocated. Engineer Bhusal, however, complained that the budget for the progamme was insufficient.

The scheme would provide irrigation throughout the year. It is said nearly Rs 8.5 million is spent in installing a deep tube well. After the installation, applications will be sought from farmers who want the service. The farmers will be charged Rs 500 for the irrigation per hectare.