Anantnag, Jun 17 (KNO): A sudden breach in the Awantipora canal has triggered a severe irrigation crisis in south Kashmir, disrupting water supply to hundreds of kanals of agricultural land across the districts of Anantnag and Pulwama.
The breach, which occurred late Monday night, has damaged approximately 50 metres of the canal, while a stretch of a recently constructed PMGSY road has also been affected, raising concerns over both farming livelihoods and connectivity in the region.
The Irrigation and Flood Control Department has halted water flow to prevent further erosion.
Officials on-site confirmed to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that restoration may take at least 4 to 5 days. This has added to the anxiety among farmers who are racing against time to transplant paddy, an essential activity ideally completed by June 21.
“This is a critical time for us,” said Ghulam Nabi Dar, a farmer from Hari. “We have only a narrow window to transplant paddy. If water isn’t restored soon, our entire season could be lost.”
Locals said the breach not only threatens their livelihoods but also highlights longstanding issues related to the maintenance of irrigation infrastructure. “This didn’t happen overnight,” added Fayaz Ahmad, a resident of Beighpora. “The canal embankments have been weakening for years. Authorities only wake up after a disaster strikes.”
The damage has also affected the High Diversion Road, part of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), which connects multiple villages. Commuters are now forced to take longer, rougher routes. “This road was a lifeline for us,” said Shakeela Bano, a schoolteacher. “Now it’s completely damaged—neither students nor patients can travel easily.”
Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Dr Bashir Ahmad Veeri and DDC member Tasadduq Ahmad Veeri visited the site and interacted with local residents. “We understand the gravity of the situation,” Dr Veeri said. “I have taken up the matter with the concerned departments. Restoration work will be expedited, and compensation for the affected farmers will also be considered.”—(KNO)