By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 17: Prompt action by Food and Civil Supplies Minister Comingone Ymbon helped save thousands of bighas of paddy fields in Rajabala, following an abrupt drop in water levels at the Gomaijhora Irrigation Project that had threatened to ruin standing crops.
The swift response not only averted a looming agricultural crisis but also provided immediate relief to hundreds of anxious farmers in the region.
The incident occurred when water levels in the project’s reservoir dropped sharply, disrupting the canal supply system during a critical phase of the paddy season. With no rainfall forecast and power supply issues compounding the situation, the risk of widespread crop failure increased rapidly.
Recognizing the urgency, Rajabala MLA Dr Mizanur Rahman Kazi immediately contacted Water Resources Minister Comingone Ymbon and senior officials of the department, seeking urgent intervention. The department promptly arranged for four high-powered 20 HP diesel pumps, which were installed to draw water from downstream sources back into the canal network.
The operation was executed swiftly and effectively, stabilizing the irrigation system before any irreversible damage occurred. Department officials confirmed that the temporary pumping solution had successfully restored water flow to the fields, safeguarding this season’s harvest.
Dr Kazi later acknowledged the coordinated effort of the Water Resources Minister, engineers, and field staff, crediting their teamwork for the positive outcome. He noted that while the region often faces similar challenges during the dry season, timely government intervention once again prevented disaster.
Farmers in the affected areas expressed relief and gratitude, saying the intervention came just in time to save their crops. Dr. Kazi also took to social media to publicly commend the department and extend his good wishes to the agricultural community of Rajabala.