Bhatkal: In a significant boost to irrigation infrastructure, the state government has approved the construction of a new canal from the Bheema river at Kadavinakatta to irrigate farmlands in the Shirali–Neerkanta belt of Bhatkal taluk, fulfilling a long-pending demand of local farmers.

The project, estimated at ₹6 crore, is expected to provide irrigation to hundreds of acres of agricultural land, benefiting cultivators engaged in paddy, groundnut and other crops. Farmers in the region, many of whom also cultivate jasmine on a large scale, have welcomed the move as a major relief for the farming community.

For years, farmers depended on water from the Bheema river through an existing canal originating at Kadavinakatta. However, the canal had become defunct due to heavy siltation and accumulation of debris, rendering it ineffective for irrigation. During the summer months, the lack of water severely affected farming activities, forcing many cultivators to rely solely on the monsoon season for paddy cultivation, while their fields remained fallow for the rest of the year.

Officials said the demand for a new canal had been raised repeatedly over the past several years, with representations submitted to elected authorities. The approval of the project has brought renewed hope among farmers in the region.

District in-charge Minister Mankal Vaidya said ₹6 crore has been sanctioned for constructing a 1.5-km-long canal from the Bheema river. He added that a proposal has also been submitted to desilt the river, increase its depth, and construct a new dam, with funds for these works expected to be released soon.

The project is expected to enhance irrigation access, improve crop cycles, and strengthen the rural economy in the Shirali–Neerkanta region.