A significant crack has appeared on the inner surface of the right side of the main canal on the left bank of the Tungabhadra River, extending from the top to the bottom.
The damage was noticed near Chain 2411 of Mile 46. Water flow in the main canal has currently been halted following the installation of a crest gate. Authorities are planning to release water into the canal in the first or second week of March to store drinking water for Koppal and Raichur districts. However, farmers have expressed concern that releasing water without repairing the canal’s inner lining could pose further risks.
Assistant Engineer Virupaksha Gudur stated that the cracking issue came to light on March 19. “We inspected the canal the following day and submitted a report to senior officials. Immediate repairs are required before water is released. Senior authorities will escalate the matter and take necessary action,” he said.
Engineer Nagappa said that Canal No. 2 falls under the jurisdiction of the Canal Sub-Divisional Office. “We are aware of the crack and will proceed in coordination with senior officials based on the decisions taken,” he added.