15,000 acres of farmland affected by waterlogging in Jhajjar: Irrigation dept survey

Severe waterlogging triggered by incessant rainfall has impacted more than 15,000 acres of agricultural land across 96 villages in Jhajjar district, causing extensive damage to kharif crops and threatening the livelihoods of a large number of farmers. In several areas, water up to 2.5 feet deep remains stagnant on farmland.

According to a survey report by the Irrigation Department, the Beri, Bahadurgarh, Salhawas, and Jhajjar blocks are among the worst affected.

“A total of 5,799 acres in 26 villages under Beri; 3,410 acres in 16 villages under Bahadurgarh; 1,940 acres in 12 villages under Salhawas; and 1,360 acres in 12 villages under Jhajjar block have been found severely waterlogged. To mitigate the impact, 500 pump sets have been installed to dewater the submerged fields,” an Irrigation Department official said on the condition of anonymity.

He added that waterlogging has also severely affected 925 acres across four villages in Machhrauli, 801 acres in 14 villages under Badli, and 795 acres in 12 villages of Matanhail block.

Deputy Commissioner Swapnil Ravindra Patil said that all possible measures are being taken to drain out the water in the affected areas.

“Waterlogging has caused damage both at residential and agricultural levels. We are currently conducting assessments to determine the extent of crop loss. Affected farmers can apply for compensation through the e-Kshatipurti portal by September 15,” he stated.

Jhajjar MLA and former Education Minister Geeta Bhukkal, accompanied by officials from various departments, visited several waterlogged villages, including Niwada, Konhdarawali, Nilahedi, Mundhaheda, Akehri Madanpur, Birad, Ladayan and Birohad to assess the ground situation.

“Rain led to waterlogging in rural areas as well as urban streets, severely affecting daily life. Farmers have suffered massive crop losses and shared their concerns with me. They are demanding an immediate assessment of losses and compensation,” said Bhukkal.

The Congress MLA urged the state government to expedite the compensation process and ensure adequate relief to affected farmers without further delay.