Access to reliable irrigation water remains a pressing concern for farmers in some parts of Maedwang and Genye Gewogs in Thimphu. They were unable to cultivate paddy last year due to an ongoing irrigation project work. They are worried that they may not be able to cultivate this year as well.
Despite the growing concern amongst the villagers, the Thimphu District Administration hopes to complete the project within this summer. According to the contractor, around 10 kilometres of pipes have already been laid. With over four kilometres still to be installed, the contractor said that pipes have already been bought and will be transported to Thimphu soon.
Additionally, a reservoir has been constructed, which requires only final touch-ups.
The district engineer said that the District Tender Committee and the contractor had a meeting recently where the contractor had assured to complete the project at the earliest possible.
According to the engineer, the project is supposed to be complete by the mid of next month. However, he said it is likely that it may take an additional one to two months.
The project started in 2023 and was supposed to end in August last year but was further extended. The engineer said the work progress was hampered as the villagers requested continuous water supply through the existing channel for other farming works last year. Moreover, the presence of drinking water pipes along the work sites affected the progress of the project.
Tandin, Chizhi Tshogpa said “They started their work around winter and people agreed to sacrifice their paddy cultivation for a greater benefit that year. However, only around eighty per cent of the work seems to have been completed. By looking at the progress, I think it is going to be difficult to cultivate paddy this year too.”
Karma, a resident from Pungzhi said “Last year, we left our land fallow. It will be very difficult for us to even till the land if we keep it uncultivated this year too. We hope that we can transplant paddy this year.”
Dorji from Patsekha said “We could not cultivate paddy last year and many farmers are worried whether they will be able to do it this year or not. We would be grateful if the project could be completed within three months from now.”
Choki from Sisina said “We are confused about whom to consult regarding this. We are worried that our land might remain barren this year. We would appreciate it if relevant authorities can help us, so that we can cultivate paddy this year.”
The Nu 52 M project is being carried out under the Water Flagship Programme which is funded by the Government of India. The irrigation project is expected to benefit around five villages.
Jamyang Loday
Edited by Tshering Zam
