A farmer’s standing crops have suffered extensive damage due to the overflow of water from a canal channel in Dadheri village, Fatehgarh Sahib district. A sudden rise in water levels caused the fields to flood, destroying the crops. The affected farmers alleged that this situation arose due to the lack of proper drainage arrangements.
They also expressed resentment, stating that despite reporting the incident, no administrative official arrived at the site on time. Affected farmer Sukhdev Singh and landowner Baljinder Singh reported that the water flow in the channel surged suddenly two days ago. Within moments, the water spread into their fields, submerging the standing crops. They noted that the crops were nearing maturity, but months of hard work were washed away in a short span. The farmers stated that they contacted senior officials of the concerned department immediately after the incident, but no staff member visited the site. Consequently, a timely assessment of the damage could not be conducted, leaving the farmers disappointed.
Farmers Demand Compensation
The affected farmers claimed that the pipes previously installed in the channel were not fitted correctly. This obstructed drainage, causing the overflowing water to flow directly into the fields. They asserted that the crops could have been saved had proper drainage arrangements been made in time.
The farmers have demanded that the Punjab government and district administration provide adequate compensation for their losses and implement a permanent solution to the problem. They warned that Dadheri village sits about three feet lower than the surrounding areas. If the channel continues to overflow in this manner, water could enter the village itself after flooding the fields, potentially causing severe damage to homes and other properties. Department Initiates Inquiry
Meanwhile, Vishal Kamboj, a Patwari from the Canal Department, stated that the department has received a written complaint from the farmers. An on-site inspection was conducted based on the complaint to assess the extent of the damage. It was stated that a thorough investigation would be carried out and necessary steps taken to rectify any technical flaws identified. Additionally, the department will take further action in accordance with the rules to resolve the farmers’ grievances.
At present, the farmers are urging the administration to provide immediate relief and fair compensation, as well as to improve drainage systems, so that such incidents do not recur and their hard work is safeguarded.
