After years of irrigation water shortage, relief is on the way for farmers of Galing in Trashigang. The Komchu irrigation system is undergoing major renovation to address frequent pipe damage leading to water shortages. The project aims to improve agricultural productivity in the area.
The old pipelines, which pass through rugged terrain, are more than a decade old.
Due to high water pressure and leakages, the pipes often burst, leading to frequent water shortages.
To ensure an uninterrupted water supply, maintenance work is currently underway.
Some workers are digging trenches to replace old pipelines with better-quality ones, while others are clearing irrigation canals.
Norbu from Galing Chiwog said, “Almost 10 to 15 households in Pangthang village have left their paddy fields fallow due to water shortage. Even here, some land remain unused. If we get a reliable water supply, we are ready to cultivate again, as most of our land is in the middle of the village.”
Chedon who is also from Galing Chiwog said, “I do not cultivate much, but my neighbours who grow paddy face serious problems. Although we cultivate a small area, we still face water problem and have to rely on rainfall. So, we cannot finish work on time.”
Trashigang District Administration has allocated Nu 5.5 M to carry out irrigation maintenance work, expected to be completed by June.
Once complete, it will benefit over 250 acres of land belonging to 200 households.
Galing Chiwog produced around 180 metric tonnes of rice last year.
With a reliable irrigation system, farmers are hopeful of reviving fallow fields and increasing paddy production in the coming seasons.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
