To reduce water losses, farmers and authorities are increasingly turning to pipe-based irrigation systems. Unlike traditional open channels, pipes offer a reliable method of delivering water directly to fields. Similarly, in Trashigang, farmers of Bikhar-Domkhar Chiwog in Samkhar Gewog no longer face water shortage with pipelines installed.
Farmers have been relying on the Sengsengma stream for paddy cultivation for decades.
However, significant water loss occurred due to the open channel.
This year, approximately 1.8-kilometre of water pipeline was installed along the existing channel, which has minimised seepage and significantly increased the volume of irrigation water.
The landowners contributed labour while the Department of Local Governance and Disaster Management funded the project costing Nu 1.7 M.
Lama Dorji, a farmer said, “Before we do not have enough water supply and our paddy work get complete by August or September but this year, we have completed it by June. This stream has benefitted us. I think the production will definitely increase and even the crops are growing well.”
Kezang Choden, another farmer said, “Earlier, for a small amount of water supply, we had to stay up late at night. Even then, we could barely irrigate one or two plots of land. But this time, we have more than enough water. We don’t have to stay late night, and we can irrigate anytime. Previously, we used to argue over irrigation water supply, but not anymore.”
Likewise, Jangchub, Bikhar-Domkhar Tshogpa said, “Every year, I used to deal with 9 to 10 disputes among farmers over irrigation water issue. I had to intervene. But this year, the Sengsengma stream has enough water for everyone, and the number of conflicts has decreased. In fact, I have not received even a single case to deal with this year.”
The improved irrigation water supply will benefit approximately 500 acres of paddy fields with two local rice varieties. It belongs to around 80 households in Bikhar-Domkhar Chiwog.
With fewer disputes, better yields, and timely irrigation, the pipeline project is more than just infrastructure, it is a source of relief for the farmers.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
Edited by Tshering Zam
