Secretary Reviews Watershed Projects in Dhamtari District

In Sankra village the Secretary inspected a stop dam constructed through the convergence of WDC and MGNREGA at a cost of Rs 4.034 million (mn). The structure has brought nearly 80–85 acres under irrigation and is benefiting more than 50 farmers by improving water availability for cropping cycles. Officials noted changes in cropping patterns and pointed to the dam as a durable measure for local water management.

In Belaudi village the delegation reviewed a 430-metre irrigation canal developed at a cost of Rs 2.02 million (mn), which provides irrigation to around 150 acres and has helped reduce soil erosion. The team also inspected a vegetable farm where farmers have adopted horticulture to enhance incomes and diversify livelihoods. In Saunga a five-acre plantation on a river island was observed, where 1,050 guava and lemon trees have been planted; officials suggested creation of small ponds, locally known as daris, to address water scarcity.

The delegation reviewed Amrit Sarovar projects in Bodra and Gadadih villages for groundwater recharge and community water access. A lift irrigation project in Gadadih drawing water from the Mahanadi River irrigates 85 hectares and benefits nearly 250 farmers. The Secretary described the scheme as a success model and directed officials to document achievements as templates for state-level replication.

Officials were instructed to collate technical details and outcomes for dissemination and to continue convergence with rural employment schemes and watershed programmes to scale benefits. The visit concluded with an assessment of local practices and recommendations to strengthen water management and livelihood resilience in the district.