The Gujarat government has approved the release of 16 million cubic feet (MCFT) of water from Lakhanka Dam in Bhavnagar district to address water scarcity affecting farmers and villagers during the summer. This decision, made after a plea to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, aims to fill check dams in downstream villages like Adhewada and Malanka, potentially easing the challenges faced by local agriculture and animal husbandry. Minister Jitu Vaghani, prompted by concerns raised by Bhavnagar Diamond Association President Bharatbhai Maniya (Talwar) regarding water shortages, advocated for this action to Chief Minister Patel and Water Supply Minister Ishwarsinh Patel.
The release of water from Lakhanka Dam, sanctioned by the state’s Narmada and Water Resources Department, is intended to replenish local water sources and support communities experiencing seasonal water level declines. Minister Vaghani emphasized that this initiative will specifically benefit agriculture and animal husbandry in Adhewada and Malanka by raising water levels through the check dams. The decision is seen as a crucial step to alleviate water shortages in areas facing intense summer conditions and is expected to bring significant relief to residents, according to Minister Vaghani.
Minister Vaghani expressed appreciation for the Chief Minister’s proactive stance in addressing public concerns, attributing the decision to a positive approach towards public welfare. He conveyed gratitude on behalf of Bhavnagar’s farmers and villagers for what he described as a beneficial measure. The announcement has been well-received in rural parts of the district, where water scarcity is a persistent issue during the summer months.
