The first trial run of the Lower Suktel underground pipeline irrigation project in Bolangir district on Tuesday was disrupted after multiple pipeline bursts caused flooding in farmers’ fields.

Reports stated that water pumped from the dam through the newly constructed pressurised underground network gushed uncontrollably in certain stretches, inundating paddy crops across Baghal and surrounding villages.

While some farmers received irrigation water as intended, several reported crop damage due to unanticipated flooding.

Farmers Express Anguish Over Crop Losses

Local farmers alleged that they were not informed in advance about the trial release of water through the pipelines. They also claimed that no inspection was done to validate the condition of the underground pipes, which had burs

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