Chief Minister Shah inspects Tedhi and Gurgi dams in Kailali

Dhangadhi: Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah on Thursday conducted an on-site inspection of the Tedhi Dam in Kailali Rural Municipality-2 and the Gurgi Dam in Ward No. 3, Kukurbhukka, Kailali.

According to his secretariat, the Chief Minister visited the sites to assess the condition of the dams under the district’s old irrigation projects built on the Kataini River. Farmers from Ward Nos. 6, 8, 2, 3, 5, and 7 have been benefiting from the Tedhi Irrigation Project, while those from Ward Nos. 7, 5, 1, and 3 have been benefiting from the Gurgi Irrigation Project. However, both projects have remained partially non-operational since the dams were damaged by floods in 2064 BS. Farmers have been facing irrigation difficulties for years due to the damaged dams and the failure to construct canals.

Following the inspection, Chief Minister Shah assured that the necessary budget would be allocated to support affected farmers and promote the agricultural sector. He stated that the provincial government is positive and committed to addressing the concerns of the people.

Kailari Rural Municipality Chairman Rajsamj Chaudhary said that thousands of farmers would directly benefit if the dams are reconstructed and irrigation canals are developed. He noted that around 95 percent of the local population depends on agriculture, and due to the lack of irrigation, farmers rely on rainfall and are unable to cultivate Chaite rice. He also highlighted that farmers are compelled to use diesel to pump water at high costs.

Local resident Lakhan Chaudhary expressed concern that despite repeated budget allocations by provincial and local governments, implementation has not progressed. He said it is unfortunate that the project has not been completed on time and added that proper execution of allocated funds would have significantly benefited farmers.

National Assembly member and Nepali Congress Kailali President Narayan Dutta Bhatta, Vice President Khem Chaudhary, member of the Sudurpaschim Provincial Policy and Planning Commission Nrip Sunar, Kailari Rural Municipality Chairman, and local farmers were also present during the inspection.