Ilam, Feb 21: Development of four irrigation projects started at Mangsebung Rural Municipality in Ilam district on Tuesday. The total cost of the four irrigation canals is estimated at Rs 23.36 million.

Chairman of Mangsebung Rural Municipality Hemanta Rai jointly laid the foundation stone for the construction of the canals.

Chairman of Mangsebung Rural Municipality Ward no. 1, Bhupal Yonghang, said that the irrigation projects would be constructed under the small irrigation programme. As shared by Bhupal, the farmlands at Tobhang, Nangrung and Kholagaun would get an irrigation supply after the completion of the projects.  

He added that the farmers, who still rely on rainfall and makeshift canal, are now excited from the beginning of the new projects.

The Swiss Government, Federal Government, Koshi Province Government and local government have provided the budget for the four projects while the local community would invest ten percent in partnership.   

As agreed, all four projects should be completed by July 4. 

The local people have expected better agricultural output, mostly of paddy production, with the completion of the projects. 

The Small Irrigation Project is being implemented in the Ilam district with cooperation from the Swiss Government which aims to increase productivity in the agriculture sector and ensure the commercialization of agri-business. (RSS)