INLD Calls for Inspection of Haryana’s Irrigation Infrastructure Amid Water Stress

The call for a fresh inspection of Haryana’s irrigation network has resurfaced, with the INLD leader highlighting what he describes as years of neglect that have placed the Bhakra and Yamuna systems under severe stress. The leader accused the state government of failing to secure the water share that Haryana is entitled to under the existing allocation framework.

According to the leader, the prolonged lack of maintenance and upgrades in key canal systems has heightened the risk of water scarcity for farmers and urban users alike. He urged the water resources department to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the infrastructure, focusing on the Bhakra reservoir and the downstream Yamuna canals that serve large parts of the state.

The Bhakra Nangal project, commissioned in the early 1960s, remains a cornerstone of water distribution across several states, including Haryana. Over the decades, the project has faced criticism for uneven allocation among the states that share its waters. Similarly, the Yamuna, a major eastern river, has been at the centre of inter‑state disputes, with Haryana historically receiving a portion of its flow under the Indus Water Treaty and subsequent agreements.

Political rivalry adds another layer to the issue. The INLD, a regional party with a strong base in the state’s agrarian belt, has repeatedly raised concerns about the state’s water rights, positioning itself against the ruling dispensation. The party’s demand for an inspection aligns with its broader narrative of advocating for the interests of farmers and marginalised communities that depend on reliable irrigation.

While the state’s water resources department has not issued a detailed response to the call, officials have indicated that they are monitoring the situation and are prepared to act on any verified findings. The absence of an immediate public statement has left the matter in a state of anticipation, with stakeholders watching closely for any sign of concrete action.

The broader implications of the demand are significant. With monsoon rains yet to arrive, the reliance on stored water from the Bhakra and Yamuna systems is expected to remain high. Any disruption in the irrigation network could affect crop cycles, increase farmer distress, and exacerbate water shortages in urban areas. Moreover, the issue underscores the ongoing challenge of equitable water sharing among states, a topic that continues to shape policy debates across the region.

In sum, the INLD’s call for an inspection brings attention to a pressing infrastructure concern that touches on political, agricultural, and civic dimensions. Whether the state government will respond with a timely and thorough assessment remains to be seen, but the pressure on the water resources department to act is now more evident than ever.

Source: Hindustan Times