BJP functionary seeks Rs 1L per acre relief after canal breach damages crops

Photo: A field inundated after canal breachKoppal: BJP functionary Basavaraj Kyavater demanded compensation of Rs 1 lakh per acre for farmers affected by a canal breach near Bandiharalapur-Basapur villages in the taluk.In a statement issued on Sunday, Kyavater said over 90 acres of paddy crop were damaged after a breach in the canal a week ago led to flooding of fields. Farmers in the region cultivated paddy using limited water, despite lack of adequate irrigation for a second crop.Kyavater alleged negligence by officials and ruling party representatives, stating that repeated requests from farmers for canal maintenance were ignored. He said timely repairs could have prevented the incident.He also flagged delays in the survey of affected areas, alleging that revenue and irrigation department officials were yet to complete a proper assessment. He urged authorities to conduct an immediate survey and release compensation.Kyavater said the breach could also affect drinking water supply in parts of Koppal and Raichur districts during summer, and called for urgent repair of the canal.