As many as 7062 tanks will be rejuvenated under Jala Dhara-Jala Harathi programme, which was launched to improve groundwater and provide adequate water for irrigation needs in Vizianagaram district.

Collector S. Ramsundar Reddy and Joint Collector S.Sedhu Madhavan directed officials of the District Water Management Agency to identify works such as strengthening of bunds, removal of silt and connectivity among the tanks and others.

The works needed to be completed within a couple of months so that the rain water could be stored adequately to benefit farmers during Kharif season.

The government will also focus on development of 4801 canals in the district as part of this programme. Mr. Sedhu Madhavan directed the officials concerned to submit details about the progress of the works on weekly basis. Speaking to The Hindu here, he said that the programme would benefit agriculture sector as many farmers are depending on tanks for their irrigation needs.

He said that the works were taken up in 2573 tanks out of 7062 tanks selected for Jala Harathi programme. He hoped that the groundwater levels would improve significantly after the completion of all works. He hoped that the cattle would also get adequate water with the development of tanks in the district.