Irrigation and Water Resources Minister Shruti Choudhry on Thursday announced that for the first time in the state, a World Bank-supported Integrated Water Management Project, involving an expenditure of roughly Rs 5,700 crore, was being implemented. She said the project would prove to be a game changer for Haryana, alleging that adequate attention was not given to public welfare works during the previous Congress government’s tenure.
Shruti was interacting with media representatives after chairing a meeting of the District Public Relations and Grievances Redressal Committee held at the DRDA Hall in Rohtak. Responding to a question regarding water availability and irrigation facilities, Shruti said the state government was working with a long-term and scientific approach towards water management. “Earlier, emphasis was largely placed on local and temporary arrangements for water distribution, but the present government is developing the entire irrigation system via an integrated approach,” she added.
“Under the project, modern SCADA systems will be installed at all major water control centres across the state. This will enable real-time monitoring of water flow in canals, distribution systems and the availability of water up to the tail-end areas,” she added. Shruti said the comprehensive plan also included micro-irrigation, groundwater recharge, water conservation and various aspects related to agricultural practices. The objective of the programme is to ensure equitable and efficient water distribution across the state while promoting optimum conservation and utilisation of water resources.
“To strengthen flood management and disaster preparedness, flood protection works have been approved in 19 villages of Rohtak district at a cost of Rs 24.36 crore. The projects will also be inaugurated soon. The area is low-lying and remains particularly vulnerable during heavy rains and floods. The Irrigation Department had effectively managed the situation during the previous spell of heavy rainfall, and preparations are already underway for the upcoming monsoon to ensure that people do not face any inconvenience,” said the minster.
Shruti further said that the Jhajjar sub-branch canal, considered the lifeline of the region, had not undergone major remodelling and relining work since 1994. “Due to prolonged maintenance issues, water losses had also become a concern. Keeping this in view, around Rs 14 crore have been allocated for the canal’s remodelling under the project.” Shruti added.
