SIALKOT, Oct 23: The Irrigation Department has stopped water discharge into the Bambaanwala-Ravi-Baidian (BRB) Canal after water shortage in the River Chenab, official sources say.

Earlier, water supply to Marala Ravi Link (MR Link) Canal was closed 50 days ago due to water shortage in the Chenab after India reportedly stopped water discharge into the river. Another Upper Chenab Canal is also likely to be closed soon due to the same reason.

The termination of water supply hit seasonal crops, especially paddy crops, leaving a number of farmers in troubles.

Framers’ Rights Protection Forum Chairman Mirza Ehsan Baig, Kissan Board Chairman Amanullah Chatta and Syed Iqbal Hussain Shah have expressed grave concern over the closure of canals.

They urged the federal government to take up the matter with the Indian government besides pressuring India from other global quarters for the release of water into the River Chenab. They also urged the government to ensure compensation for affected farmers.

According to official sources, the water level was continuously dropping in the River Chenab at Head Marala.