BATTERED by continuous drought, kachha area this month received ample Nai Gaj water flow. Soon lush green organic crops of sorghum, cluster bean will grow up and underground water and natural fauna will get a new lease of life.

However, in Punjab and Balochistan, the governments are fully supporting in building culverts, lining watercourses and supporting the farmers in every possible way.

In Sindh, spate irrigation has been rendered orphan. The farmers affected by continuous drought conditions desperately needed financial support for constructing earthen embankments but no such support was offered. Some courageous famers’ took a lead in collecting donation and bearing remaining expenses themselves individually and constructed earthen embankments.

The collective spirit was high. The farmers’ leaders urged local tractor owners to work without any profit. However, when Nai water after irrigating fields from up and midstream was heading towards downstream fields of union council Sawro, the poorly construct Johi-Wahi road without an adequate number of culverts and bridges broke up at several points.

The government departments, particularly the deputy commissioner of Dadu and elected representatives should put in place at least eight culverts in Johi-Wahi road using standard material to ensure a smooth flow of water to several villages downstream Sawro.

Gulsher Panhwer
Johi

Published in Dawn, August 5th, 2019