Ahmedabad: The ₹1,200-crore Kharicut Canal Development Project, aimed at transforming the eastern part of Ahmedabad, has run into a major hurdle after the irrigation department released water into the canal, forcing ongoing construction work to stop.

The work, being carried out by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) to convert the Kharicut Canal into a boxed structure, was nearing completion at a key stretch near Bhavna School in Rabari Colony. Only around 50 metres of boxing work remained, which officials said could have been completed within 15 days. However, with water suddenly flowing through the canal, contractors were compelled to urgently remove machinery and construction material from the site.

The move followed a representation by Daskroi BJP MLA Babubhai Jamnadas Patel, who insisted that farmers urgently needed water for irrigation. Speaking on the issue, Patel said the project has been underway for the past four years and farmers were earlier told they would not receive water for two years. “Even after nearly five years, the work is still incomplete. Even if construction has to stop, farmers must get water,” he said, adding that he has demanded the water supply be continued for at least two months.

Meanwhile, civic body officials expressed concern that the sudden release of water could lead to delays and potential financial losses. They noted that support structures, soil, and other construction materials remain inside the canal, and water is now flowing over them.

The MLA has also demanded penalties against contractors, alleging slow progress and lax execution of the work. DeshGujarat