Godavari Canal Irrigation and Fisheries in Hingoli

Hingoli district receives irrigation from the Godavari river system through the Lower Manjra and Penganga canal networks. The canals have enabled paddy cultivation in parts of Hingoli that previously supported only dryland jowar and cotton. Canal fisheries have developed alongside irrigation infrastructure, with carp and catfish species colonising canal head works and distribution channels. Community fishing cooperatives in Hingoli operate fishing rights in canal reservoirs, providing both protein and income. Traditional seasonal fishing in the Godavari and Pengannga rivers by Koli Mahadeo communities continues alongside canal fisheries. Fish drying (suka machi) is practiced by riverside women, producing dried fish sold at weekly markets for use in cooking across non-coastal Maharashtra. The Jayakwadi dam's reduction of Godavari flow during lean season has compressed traditional fishing opportunities along the river.