VALPOI
With the onset of the monsoon just days away, all check dams constructed across various rivers in Sattari taluka have been opened by removing the wooden shutters installed for water storage.
This has ensured that the natural flow of rivers remains unobstructed during the rainy season.
To prevent any hindrance to the flow of water, the Water Resources Department (WRD) had instructed contractors to remove logs, branches and other debris trapped between the pillars of the check dams.
Accordingly, the required works have been completed at all locations, and obstacles that could affect river flow have been cleared. In addition, silt accumulated around some of the dam structures has also been removed.
WRD officials stated that special care has been taken to ensure that river channels remain free-flowing throughout the monsoon season.
According to sources, several check dams have been constructed on rivers across Sattari taluka under the ‘Save Water, Recharge Water’ initiative. These structures play a vital role in storing water after the monsoon and supporting agriculture and horticulture activities in the region.
Once the rainy season ends, shutters are installed in the check dams to retain water, creating reservoirs that are used for irrigation purposes.
The stored water is supplied to farmers through lift irrigation schemes, helping sustain agricultural activities during the dry months. This year too, the entire process was managed efficiently, ensuring an adequate supply of irrigation water. No major shortage of water was reported in any part of the taluka, bringing relief and satisfaction to the farming community.
Sources said all check dams in Sattari have now been fully opened. The shutters used for water storage have been removed, and the process has been completed across all locations. As a result, there is no cause for concern even if heavy rains begin at any moment.
Officials further explained that rivers in Sattari witness a significant increase in water flow during the monsoon. Even a minor obstruction in the river channel can sometimes lead to waterlogging or flood-like situations. To avoid such risks, the department has ensured that all possible obstacles around the check dams have been removed well in advance.
Meanwhile, logs and wooden debris trapped between the pillars of several check dams have been removed. Such materials could have obstructed the free flow of water and increased the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall. Contractors engaged in the maintenance work were directed to clear these obstructions immediately.
Besides removing the shutters, other barriers affecting the flow of water were also cleared. In some locations, silt had accumulated around the pillars and adjoining areas of the check dams. The accumulated silt was dredged and removed wherever necessary to ensure uninterrupted river flow.
