A Major Achievement of the Mann Government – Canal Water Reaches Almost Every Field; 84% of Irrigation Now From Canal Sources

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab’s irrigation system has witnessed a historic transformation. For the first time, canal water is reaching the tail ends (far-off areas) of the state. Due to the Mann Government’s initiative, nearly 84% of irrigation in the state is now being done through canal water, which earlier stood at 68%. This achievement is the outcome of the 14-point action plan implemented under the Integrated State Water Plan.

So far, 15,914 water channels across the state have been restored, and water flow has been revived in 916 canals and minors. In many regions that had been dry for the last 35–40 years, the arrival of canal water has brought smiles back to the faces of farmers.

To ensure the supply of water to farms, 2,400 kilometers of underground pipelines have been laid, providing irrigation facilities to 30,282 hectares of land. Under this project, farmers are being given a subsidy of 90% at the group level and 50% at the individual level. In addition, 6,000 hectares of land have been brought under drip and sprinkler irrigation systems.

In Punjab, which is facing a severe groundwater crisis, this initiative is promoting the use of surface water. The government has launched 28 underground pipeline-based irrigation projects, through which 300 million liters of treated water per day will reach the fields.

Additionally, 160 water storage and recharge structures have been set up in the Kandi region, and solar-lift irrigation projects have been initiated in 125 villages. The reconstruction and improvement of canals remain among the top priorities of the Mann Government. Following the Chief Minister’s directions, officials have ensured that canal reconstruction work is carried out in a way that maximizes the use of canal water and minimizes wastage. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s vision is to ensure that canal water reaches every village and every field across Punjab.