Raj Sadosh/Abohar.
Gramin Mazdoor Kisan Samiti (GKS) has submitted a memorandum to Sadulshehar BJP MLA Gurveer Singh Brar, listing their demands regarding the potential problems arising from the proposed water closure for reconstruction of the Ferozepur Feeder Canal.
The main demands included that the proposed closure of the Ferozepur Feeder Canal should be started at least from February 1 or later, instead of January 15, so that farmers' crops receive sufficient water. Before the closure, the Gang Canal should be provided with additional water beyond its allocated share.
GKS said that an alternative water supply system should be ensured in advance during the closure through the old Bikaner Canal and the old Eastern Canal, from the Hussainiwala Barrage. The two leaking gates and the damaged floor of the Hussainiwala Barrage should be repaired, the old Bikaner Canal should be thoroughly cleaned, and its embankments strengthened. Also, the floor of the gate located at RD 45 of the old Bikaner Canal and the old Eastern Canal should be lowered to ensure smooth water flow. In addition, during the closure, at least 1600 to 1700 cusecs of water should be ensured at the Khakhan Headworks of the Gang Canal located on Abohar-Sriganganagar boundary through the alternative arrangement.
GKS warned that if these demands are ignored and the closure is implemented, the organization will strongly protest. Brar assured that all their demands would be strongly presented before the governments of Rajasthan and Punjab.