As the Narmada water entered into the Omkareshwar Multipurpose Project (OSP) canal on Sunday morning, the farmers welcomed it with cheers. They performed traditional puja of Narmada water. As the water is proceeding in 64-km-long canal, the villagers gathered around the canal with pleaser and surprise on their faces.
It may be mentioned here that Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has directed authorities to provide irrigation water to the farmers of command area of OSP project for summer crops. Accordingly, the reservoir level of the dam would be increased by two meters from present 189m level. The canal could be made flow only after attaining the required level of 191m.
A progressive farmer Neelesh Patidar said that the decision of providing water for summer crop would help many small farmers to compensate their losses due to untimely rains. He informed that now farmers of this area have come out from the influence of the elements always opposes dams and canals. They are now fully aware that flow irrigation is the only way to bring prosperity and happiness to them.
It is to note here that last week, a team of officers of Ministry of Environment and Forest Governemnt of India (GoI) had visited the command area of OSP. The activist from the dam and canal opposition group was also following the team. But these activists had faced strong opposition from the villagers. The villagers heavily oppose their presence in the area with showing black flags. At some places, they burn effigy in protest.