IFM decries harassment of farmers, seeks immediate restoration of canal water supply

The Irabot Foundation Manipur (IFM) has strongly condemned the alleged harassment of farmers and disruption of irrigation water supply from the left canal of the Thoubal Multipurpose Dam, which has adversely affected cultivation in several parts of Thoubal district.
In a press release issued on Monday, IFM expressed deep concern over the plight of farmers cultivating first-season crops (angan-fou) in areas such as Thoubal Nongbalkhong, Ningombam, Sabaltongba, and Moijing. The Foundation stated that many farmlands are parched as a result of delayed water release and alleged restriction by officials.
Following complaints from the local farming community, an IFM team led by its president Kh. Gopen Luwang visited the affected areas to assess the ground situation. During the inspection, the team found that the left main canal—originally designed with a 3-meter width—is currently functioning at a reduced width of just 2 meters, significantly limiting water flow to agricultural lands.
According to the Foundation, the left canal is meant to irrigate approximately 1,079 hectares of farmland across six villages, including 66 hectares in Khun 66, 79.9 hectares in Ahanba Khun Bumbakhulen, 150.73 hectares in Leirongthel, and 226.17 hectares in Chandra Khong. However, due to insufficient flow and ongoing repair works, the canal is failing to serve its intended purpose.
Local officials reportedly told the IFM team that water supply had been halted since May 3 due to repair works on a damaged drop fall structure. They added that water would be restored after May 15 upon completion of repairs at Garok Lambi Thong and Kekru sections. However, the IFM raised doubts about the timeline and transparency, noting that only minimal work has been done so far and no clear plan was shared with farmers.
“Farmers are currently at a critical stage of rice transplanting, and further delay in water supply could cause irreversible crop damage,” said IFM. The Foundation emphasized the urgency of restoring irrigation and warned that poor planning and execution could lead to significant agricultural loss.
Despite reports that work orders have been issued for repairs, IFM highlighted the lack of visible progress and questioned the quality and pace of the ongoing works. Local farmers also expressed frustration over the inefficiency and called for immediate intervention.
Calling the situation “deeply alarming,” IFM urged the concerned departments to prioritize farmers’ needs and ensure that canal water is delivered without delay. The Foundation appealed for greater accountability and responsible governance to protect the livelihoods of thousands of farmers depending on the seasonal crop.
“This is not just a technical failure—it is a threat to the very survival of our farming communities,” IFM stated. “Authorities must act now, with urgency and sincerity, before it is too late.”