Jaipur: Churu MP Rahul Kaswan raised concerns Saturday regarding the recently proposed Rs 800-crore Hansiyawas reservoir under the Yamuna Water Project, emphasising that local farmers have not been sufficiently consulted despite their lands being affected.The foundation stone for the reservoir was laid by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma in Fatehpur, Sikar, on Sept 30. During a Seva Sankalp Abhiyan event the next day, Sharma described the project as a significant advancement towards routing Yamuna water to the Shekhawati region.
Farmers protest against the proposed Hansiyawas reservoir project in Churu.
Kaswan highlighted the plight of residents from 8-10 villages surrounding Hansiyawas, who have been protesting and conducting hunger strikes for nearly a month against the acquisition of their fertile agricultural lands. “Why is the govt proceeding without addressing the concerns of affected farmers?” the Congress MP questioned, seeking clarity on crucial issues such as land acquisition, compensation and rehabilitation.Kaswan also sought clarity on the irrigation benefits for Churu, including the quantity of water available for agriculture, command area and villages expected to benefit. He sought details of Haryana’s withdrawal limits and district-wise allocation for Churu, Sikar and Jhunjhunu.
Farmers protest against the proposed Hansiyawas reservoir project in Churu.
“We welcome Rajasthan getting its rightful share of Yamuna water and want the project to move forward without delay. Yet, people whose land and livelihoods are affected must know exactly what the project entails and what they will receive in return,” he said.
