Buxar: Buxar MP and RJD leader Sudhakar Singh has levelled serious allegations against Bihar’s water resources department, claiming that despite an expenditure of Rs 80,000 crore over the last 20 years, the state has seen a 25% decline in its irrigation capacity.
Sudhakar stated that in 2005, 12.5 lakh hectares of land were under irrigation, which has now reduced to 9.5 lakh hectares. He alleged that budget allocations meant for improving irrigation and flood control have largely benefited contractors, officials, and ruling party leaders, rather than the intended beneficiaries — the farmers.
Highlighting the annual budget of over Rs 4,000 crore for flood control, Sudhakar criticised the state government for its inability to provide timely water release for agriculture. “Earlier, canals received water before May 15, aligned with Rohini Nakshatra. This has now been delayed to June 15, directly impacting sowing schedules,” he said.
He also pointed to the deteriorating condition of the Son Canal system, reduced water flow from Indrapuri Barrage, and Bihar’s unmet share of water from the Bansagar reservoir as evidence of administrative neglect.
Calling for a high-level probe into the Rs 80,000 crore expenditure, Sudhakar demanded restoration of pre-May 15 water releases, accountability for those responsible, and the completion of repair works before the onset of the monsoon. He warned that if farmers continue to be ignored, the RJD would initiate a mass movement across villages, declaring the issue one of farmers’ survival, not just water.
