Gujarat govt commissions six new check dams to boost irrigation across 30 villages

IANS May 15, 2025 192 views

The Gujarat government has inaugurated six new check dams in Dharisana village, led by Water Resources Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya, to enhance irrigation in 30 villages. These dams, constructed at Rs 18.07 crore, aim to provide water security for 350 hectares of farmland. Minister Bavaliya reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring water availability across rural Gujarat. The initiative forms part of broader plans to expand water infrastructure, potentially benefiting 90 to 95 villages when all projects are complete.

"We've initiated these projects to ensure water security in every Gujarat corner." - Kunvarji Bavaliya
Gandhinagar, May 15: The Gujarat government has taken a step toward improving irrigation infrastructure in the Gandhinagar district with the inauguration of six newly constructed check dams in Dahegam's Dharisana village.

Key Points

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Six check dams costing Rs 18.07 crore inaugurated in Dharisana

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Enhancements will benefit 350 hectares and 30 villages in Gandhinagar and Dahegam

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Future projects aim to extend water facilities to even more areas

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Minister Bavaliya highlights commitment to state-wide water security

The inauguration was led by Water Resources Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya, who also visited and personally inspected a key check dam built across the Khari River at a cost of Rs 2.33 crore. These projects are part of a broader initiative by the state to ensure adequate water availability for drinking and agriculture across rural areas.

Constructed at a total cost of Rs 18.07 crore, the six check dams have been built across the Meshwo and Khari rivers.

These structures are designed to store approximately 41.89 million cubic feet (MCFT) of water, benefiting over 350 hectares of farmland across more than 30 villages in Gandhinagar and Dahegam talukas.

During his address, Minister Bavaliya emphasised the state government's unwavering commitment to delivering water security in every corner of Gujarat.

The minister also shared future plans to expand the network of check dams, particularly in areas that face irrigation water shortages during the summer months.

In Gandhinagar district alone, 14 check dams have been built on the Sabarmati River, and four additional structures are being constructed on the Vatrak River to serve 10 nearby villages.

On the Meshwo River, one check dam is operational, two were inaugurated during this event, two more are under construction, and four additional dams are planned. Similarly, on the Khari River, three existing check dams have now been supplemented by four newly inaugurated ones, with plans underway to construct three more.

Once all projects are completed, the expanded infrastructure is expected to benefit more than 550 hectares of agricultural land and reach around 90 to 95 villages in the region.

The inauguration ceremony was also attended by Ahmedabad East MP Hasmukh Patel, Dahegam MLA Balrajsinh Chauhan, Gandhinagar District Panchayat President Shilpaben Patel, local government officials, and senior officers from the Water Resources Department, including Secretary P.C. Vyas and Chief Engineer M.D. Patel.

Reader Comments

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Rahul P.
This is fantastic news! Gujarat farmers have been struggling with water scarcity for years. These check dams will be game-changers for irrigation. Hope the government maintains them properly though - many such projects become useless due to poor maintenance after inauguration. 🙏
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Priya M.
As someone from Gandhinagar, I've seen how water shortages affect our farmers. 41.89 MCFT storage capacity is impressive! But officials should also educate villagers about water conservation techniques to maximize benefits. Jai Gujarat! 🌾
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Amit K.
Good initiative but Rs 18 crore seems quite expensive for 6 check dams. Would like to see transparency in expenditure details. Also hope the benefits reach small farmers equally, not just the politically connected ones.
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Sunita R.
My uncle's farm is near Khari River - he's been waiting for this for years! Finally some relief from tanker dependency. The minister's personal inspection gives me hope they're serious about implementation. Gujarat model at work! 💧
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Vikram J.
While this is positive, what about groundwater recharge? Check dams alone won't solve water crisis. Need comprehensive watershed management with community participation. Hope future plans include this aspect.
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Neha T.
The scale of planning is commendable - existing dams, new ones, and future projects all mapped out. If executed well, this could transform agriculture in the region. Fingers crossed for our hardworking farmers! 🤞

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Tags:
Gujarat irrigation Kunvarji Bavaliya Check dams Water security Gujarat government Gandhinagar