Restoration of Kariya stream and Canal Brings Relief to Farmers
The GBC canal situated in Adapur, East Champaran, which used to flow from the Kariya stream to the Chhapra sluice gate, was carrying all its water into the river due to siltation. After the desilting of the canal, approximately 225 acres of land has now been irrigated after almost 50 years. Along with irrigation, a major benefit has been the restoration of the adjacent cremation ground, which had deteriorated due to flood. After restoration, the canal water will reach Heera Chhapra, approximately 5 kilometers away, improving irrigation facilities.
The vents under the bridge over the Kariya River had 4 out of 6 vents completely blocked, causing the condition of the stream on the other side of the bridge to deteriorate significantly. Due to one side of the stream getting filled with sediment, the river was cutting through the other side, causing flooding in the Panchayats of Sersia and Belwa. The vent was cleaned using the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), the damaged banks were repaired, and the river was also cleaned on the other side. This will now provide convenience to four Panchayats.
Background:
Previously, the canal parallel to Karaya stream received water from the Ghodasahan canal, which would flow for about 7000 feet before merging with the river. Unfortunately, due to the stream’s diversion and the closure of the canal, farmers faced numerous challenges in sustaining their agriculture-based livelihoods. The prolonged blockage caused inconvenience and negatively impacted crop irrigation in the region, thereby affecting the overall agricultural productivity. The deteriorated condition of the bridge, along with the blocked vents beneath it, posed significant challenges for the local authorities. With four out of six vents clogged, the stream on one side witnessed severe degradation, resulting in the stream shifting its course and causing flooding in neighboring Panchayats. The situation demanded prompt action to mitigate the risks and restore functionality to the bridge.
The Intervention:
Recognizing the urgency, the local authorities launched an extensive restoration project. The first step involved cleaning the vents using the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to remove the accumulated sediment and debris. This process not only restored the functionality of the vents but also enhanced the flow of water, preventing further erosion of the riverbanks.
Simultaneously, the damaged banks of the streams were repaired, ensuring the stability of the surrounding areas and protecting them from potential flooding. By investing in restoring the infrastructure and improving the waterway, the project aimed to reconnect the affected Panchayats, fostering socio-economic growth and development
Benefits and Impact:
The successful restoration of the Kariya River and the clearance of the blockades have brought immense joy and relief to the farming community. With the water flowing freely through the revitalized stream and canal, farmers can now resume their agriculture-based activities without hindrance. The availability of a reliable water source ensures improved crop cultivation, boosting agricultural productivity and providing a sustainable livelihood for the local farmers.
Furthermore, the restoration efforts alleviated the risk of flooding in the adjoining Panchayats. By cleaning the bridge vents and improving the flow of the Karina River, potential disasters were averted, ensuring the safety and security of the communities residing along its banks.Furthermore, the implementation of MGNREGA in this project has not only restored the river but has also generated employment opportunities for the local workforce. The community members actively participated in the restoration activities, making it a collaborative effort towards enhancing rural development.
The restoration of the Karaya stream and the canal through the MGNREGA program has proven to be a significant milestone in improving the agricultural landscape and augmenting the socio-economic conditions of the Sirsiya kala, Belwa, Harpur and Shyampur Panchayats. The rejuvenated river has rekindled hope among the farmers and revived their faith in sustainable agriculture. This successful intervention exemplifies the crucial role that MGNREGA initiatives and community participation can play in addressing critical challenges and rejuvenating rural areas
