State irrigation department begins survey for new Kokrajhar canal project

Farmers in western Kokrajhar district have reason for cautious optimism this week, after the state irrigation department confirmed it has begun a feasibility survey for a new canal serving the area. A team of engineers has been carrying out weekly field visits, mapping terrain, water sources and possible channel routes.

A senior engineer with the department said the survey has so far identified a roughly twelve-kilometre stretch that could bring water to eight surrounding villages even in the dry season. "We are first understanding the soil profile and water flow before any final design is drawn up," the engineer said, adding that the team expects to complete fieldwork within two months.

Representatives of local farmer collectives have welcomed the move. For years, cultivators in the region have struggled with water shortages through the dry months, a problem that affects not just paddy but also vegetable cultivation. "If the canal is actually built, we could farm twice a year instead of once," one farmer said.

Once the survey is complete, the department plans to prepare a detailed cost estimate and route the proposal to the state government for approval. If cleared, construction could begin as early as next winter, officials said, though they cautioned that timelines depend on budget allocation.

The district administration is also lending support, with the agriculture department providing the survey team with local data and helping coordinate with village councils along the proposed route. If completed, officials expect the project to meaningfully change the district's agricultural economy.