VALPOI
Plates of all the bandharas in Sattari taluka have been removed and water has been released, said officials of the Valpoi Irrigation Department.
They said this is the first time it has been done to some extent. The possibility of heavy rains at any moment can’t be overlooked. If that happens, it will be difficult to remove the plates when the river floods suddenly, the officials added.
A few years ago, several bandharas were constructed on Valavanti, Ragada, Mhadei, Velus and Thorali rivers in Sattari as part of ‘Pani Adwa Pani Jirwa’.
As a result, rising groundwater levels have had a positive effect on biological resources and agriculture. It led to lakhs of square
meters of land coming under farming.
According to information, the water levels in the bandharas has been good compared to previous years due to better blockage. This bandharas had good water quantity till May 20.
Due to the efficiency of the Irrigation Department this year, farmers have benefited immensely in cultivation of crops.
When contacted, Shailesh Pokale, Assistant Engineer, Valpoi Irrigation Department, said that special precautions were taken this year to stop the flow of water from the bandharas.
“Special care was taken to prevent any leakage of water at any level. Due to this, a good supply of water remained in the bandharas even in May,” Pokle said.
The Irrigation Department implemented lift irrigation schemes in many places to make this water reserve available for better cultivation.
Pokle explained that due to this, lakhs of square meters of land came under irrigation and this has given a good boost to agriculture and horticulture.
