Bring water from Noyyal to Uppukarai stream: Farmers

Tirupur: Farmers from Pongalur region in Tirupur district have demanded the state government to bring water from the Noyyal river to the Uppukarai stream following the inadequate supply from the Parambikulam Aliyar Project (PAP) scheme.
“When water was supplied from the PAP scheme to three zones, there was enough water to agricultural lands in Pongalur region and farmers cultivated two crops yearly. But after the scheme was extended to additional areas, the water share to the region has reduced,” said K Thangavelu, a farmer from Pongalur.

Presently, the PAP scheme serves around 4 lakh acres. The Uppukarai stream, originating on Alagumalai hill near Pongalur, runs through Uppukaraiyampalayam, Kulathupalayam, Karungalipalayam, Periyariyapatti, Padiyur, Rasappalayam, and Karakkattupudur before draining into the Noyyal.

“If the water could be brought from the Noyyal to the Uppukarai stream, it will at least help to recharge groundwater and supply potable water. The pipeline could be installed at Somanur and water could be taken during rainy season,” he said.

Farmers said it will cost only a few crores to implement the project. “The government should take immediate steps to implement it,” they said. They already presented the idea to the public works department.