Breach In Sasan Canal Inundates Agricultural Land In Sambalpur

Photograph: Suprakash Mishra

Sambalpur: Hundreds of acres of agricultural land were inundated following a 20-feet breach in the Sasan Canal originating from Hirakuda dam near Pandaripali village in Odisha’s Sambalpur district on Friday.

Following information, engineers and staff of the Water Resources department have rushed to the spot and begun repair work on a war-footing.

Talking to the media persons, a local of Pandaripali village said there has been no repair of the canal since last 12 years. The left side of the canal has become extremely weak due to lack of repair. “We had taken up this matter with the Water Resources officials, the district administration and the district collector in December last year and again in January this year. But no action has been taken up till date,” he added.

Asked about the matter, GC Das, Superintending Engineer, Water Resources, said since this canal is 70-year-old, there must be some weak points somewhere. “Besides, increase in the water supply level has also put extra pressure at some weak points of the canal as a result of which the breach has occurred. Since paddy is grown in a majority of lands near the canal, the dam authorities release more water in the canal as the crop needs more water,” he pointed out.

Talking about the repair of the canal, Das said the weak points of the canal would be identified at every release point around which concrete guard wall would be erected to prevent leakage.

“Besides, the Water Resources department would prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for the repair and renovation of the canal so that such incident would not take place in future,” he explained.

It may be recalled that hundreds of acres of agriculture land were inundated due to a breach in this canal near Talab village under Kisinda Tehsil of the district on February 11 this year.