Sattari: In a significant step towards addressing the long-pending water crisis in Derode village, social worker Milind Prabhu recently inspected a potential water source located deep in the rugged hills nearly 2.5 kilometres away from the settlement.

Derode’s agricultural lands have remained parched for years due to the absence of proper irrigation infrastructure. Local farmers have repeatedly raised concerns over the lack of water facilities, stating that agriculture in the village has almost come to a standstill as successive governments failed to provide a permanent solution.

During the inspection, Prabhu assessed the feasibility of drawing water from the hilly terrain to the village through a pipeline network. The route, however, poses major challenges due to steep slopes, rocky surfaces, and difficult accessibility.

Speaking during the visit, Prabhu described the project as a “herculean task,” but stressed that efforts must be made to restore water security and revive farming activities in the area. He said the villagers have suffered for decades despite repeated assurances from authorities and deserve immediate intervention.

Residents accompanying the inspection expressed hope that the initiative could finally bring relief to the farming community, which has been struggling with declining cultivation and loss of livelihood opportunities due to water scarcity.

Villagers stated that despite the presence of natural water sources in nearby forested areas, no concrete effort had been undertaken in the past to channel the water towards agricultural fields. They urged the government and concerned departments to extend full support for the proposed initiative.

The inspection is expected to be followed by technical consultations to study the viability of laying pipelines and creating a sustainable irrigation mechanism for the village.