Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann unveiled staggering progress in irrigation infrastructure, crediting his government’s swift actions for delivering water volumes matching the Bhakra Canal within four years. Focusing on seasonal rivers and neglected canals, officials secured 10,000 cusecs of water, revitalizing agriculture across the state.
From 26.50% canal coverage in 2022, the figure soared to 78%, with the cultivated area under canals reaching 58 lakh acres—nearly three times higher than before. The Rs 2,000 crore initiative covered 13,000 km of canal works, 7,000 restored watercourses, and cleanup of thousands of channels, extending reach to distant villages.
Standout efforts revived the long-lost 22-km Sarhali canal in Tarn Taran, forgotten by locals, and connected 1,446 villages via upgraded feeders post-independence. In a first for Punjab, 101 abandoned canals totaling 545 km were cleared of decades of silt without land acquisition, adding 2.75 lakh acres through nullah revivals alone.
Major upgrades transformed lifelines: the 1952 Ferozepur Feeder gained 2,682 cusecs in 35 days, while the 75-year-old Sirhind Canal saw 2,844 cusecs added via lining, boosting supply by 1.5 MAF. Rotational water rationing ended, ensuring daily flow to fields.
Groundwater relief is evident, with extraction in a Gurdaspur village halving to 31%. Mann’s vision prioritizes surface water maximization, reducing aquifer strain and promising long-term prosperity for Punjab’s agrarian heartland.