JEYPORE : Here is some cheer for the farmers of Jeypore sub-division who are dependent on irrigation facilities for their crops. A good rainfall in the catchment areas of Upper Kolab dam has increased the water level to 854 metres, raising hopes of better irrigation facilities in the ensuing rabi season.
The dam’s water level is highest in the last three years. In the past, the dam recorded the highest water level at 851 metres. According to sources, the region has been receiving good rainfall since June first week. About 60 rainy days were recorded from June to August in the catchment areas in Koraput sub-division. Presently, the dam supplies irrigation water for kharif crop in 45,000 ha in Jeypore, Kotpad, Borrigumma and parts of Jeypore sub-division. The water reserve would ensure irrigation to about 25,000 ha in the coming rabi season, sources added. Agriculture department sources said the rain would continue for the next three to four days and advised the farmers to continue farming activities taking advantage of the showers.