Farmer Community in Lolab Anguished As Paddy Fields Run Dry in Wake of Worsening Water Crisis

Jahangir Lolabi

Kupwara: A worsening water crisis has severely affected paddy cultivation across several areas of Lolab in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, leaving local farmers distressed and concerned about potential crop failure.

Farmers from the different parts of Lolab have expressed grave concern over the inadequate irrigation supply, warning that if the situation continues unchecked, it could lead to extensive damage to their paddy fields, jeopardizing both yield and livelihood.

“The fields are drying up, and we are extremely worried. If water is not made available soon, the entire season’s hard work may go to waste,” said a local farmer from the Sogam area.

“With each passing day, water bodies and brooks continue to dry up, compounding the hardships faced by farmers who are already struggling with erratic rainfall and declining groundwater levels”, another farmer said,

When the correspondent reached out to the Sub-Divisional Agricultural Officer (SDAO) of Sogam Javid Ahmad he acknowledged the crisis and said efforts are being made to assess the situation and explore possible solutions.

“We are aware of the water scarcity issue affecting the paddy fields in Lolab. Coordination is underway with the concerned irrigation authorities to ensure timely intervention,” the SDAO stated.

Regarding the damage to paddy crops and the rising concerns among farmers due to the ongoing water crisis, the officer said that the compensation can be provided only if the farmer is registered under the Fasal Bima Yojana (Crop Insurance Scheme). Under this scheme, farmers pay a nominal premium of approximately ₹60, and in the event of crop damage, the department offers compensation of ₹4,500 per kanal.

Given the increasing severity of the water shortage, we strongly urge all farmers to register under the Fasal Bima Yojana scheme at the earliest. This will ensure that in case of crop loss or damage, they receive timely financial support from the government.

Locals have urged the administration to take immediate action to restore water supply and protect the standing crops during this critical cultivation period.