Nashik : Water resources minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil has urged local authorities to prioritise desilting dams to increase their water storage capacity and support agricultural development.
Describing Nashik as a leading agricultural district, Vikhe Patil said its farmers had carved out a distinct identity through orchard cultivation, innovative farming practices and the adoption of modern technology. The departments concerned should focus on increasing the storage capacity of dams through desilting,” he said. The minister also said the state govt stood firmly in support of the farmers to tackle the drought situation caused by insufficient rainfall, and top priority is being given to addressing drinking water and fodder issues for livestock. The minister said that irrigation department officials should reactivate closed water users’ associations, ensure their regular functioning, recover water tariffs and use the collections for canal repairs and maintenance in their respective areas. “Meticulous water accounting and effective use of available storage were needed to account for every drop,” he added. In order to provide relief to the farmers in drought conditions, the minister said, necessary measures are being taken at govt level, and fodder depots will be started to ensure abundant fodder for livestock protection. “Water supply through tankers will be planned where shortages arise,” he added.
“Proper water management and the effective functioning of water users’ associations are crucial for agricultural development.