Dry fields, rising anger: Sirsa farmers battle canal chaos, crop uncertainty
Farmers in Sirsa are grappling with a deepening water crisis that is threatening irrigation and drinking water supply. A delay in the release of the regular canal water schedule — usually implemented by May 21 — has stalled the sowing of essential crops like cotton and guar. The crisis has been further aggravated by a damaged siphon at the Ottu Head on the Hisar-Ghaggar drain, which has disrupted the water flow to major canals, including the Sheranwali Parallel, SGC Canal and Kuttabadh Minor. Farmer leaders have accused the Irrigation Department of gross mismanagement and suspect that water allocated for Sirsa is being diverted elsewhere. They are demanding a full investigation into the matter. The shift from cotton to the more water-intensive paddy crop has only increased the urgency for timely and adequate water distribution.
What exactly is the current water distribution issue in Sirsa?
The water distribution schedule, typically released by May 21, has not been issued this year, delaying the sowing season. Sirsa district is divided into three zones, with each zone expected to receive canal water on a weekly rotational basis. Traditionally, each group would receive water for two weeks a month. However, this year, farmers allege they are receiving water only for one week per month — even though the canal network and upstream water availability remain unchanged.
What are the main allegations made by farmer leaders?
Farmer leaders, including Lakhwinder Singh Aulakh, have raised serious concerns over possible diversion of Sirsa’s water to other regions. They are demanding an independent inquiry. “Last year, each group received two weeks of water per month during this period. Why are we now getting only one, despite no change in water availability?” Aulakh asked. Farmers are calling for strict action against any officials found guilty of negligence or corruption.
How is crop choice affecting the water crisis this year?
According to farmers like Gurjeet Mann, recurring water shortages and pest infestations in previous years have pushed many to abandon cotton in favour of paddy, which needs significantly more water. While a light rainfall on Monday night and Tuesday morning offered minor relief, it was far from sufficient to sustain paddy cultivation. The crop shift has intensified the demand for reliable canal water supply.
What has been the govt’s response to farmer protests?
Irrigation Department officials maintain that Sirsa is following a rotational water supply system, with water released to each of the three zones one week at a time. They stated that since June 11, water has been released from the Maujgarh, Kusla, Golewala and Kalanwali canal heads to nearby villages. Officials blame the shortfall on reduced upstream supply but claim that, unlike last year, irrigation and drinking water needs are both being addressed.
Meanwhile, in Rania and Ellenabad, nearly 60 villages were impacted after water supply to the Sheranwali and MGC canals was halted due to ongoing repairs on the Ottu Head siphon. The disruption sparked protests, prompting officials to assure that the siphon repairs would be completed within 10 days. Farmers agreed to suspend their protest following the assurance.
Haryana Tribune