Ropar, May 14: A major restoration of the Bist Doab Canal network has resulted in over 1.1 lakh acres of farmland being added to Punjab’s canal-irrigated command area during the current agricultural cycle. The project, led by the state government, achieved a 167 percent growth in the network’s reach, successfully delivering surface water to 19,213 acres of land that previously lacked access to the system.
The revival focused on clearing and strengthening the various minors and distributaries that branch off from the main Ropar Headworks. These interventions addressed chronic water shortages in parts of the Doaba landscape, particularly in SBS Nagar and Kapurthala. Government officials affirmed that the improved flow has significantly enhanced the “last-mile” distribution, ensuring that water reaches fields in remote pockets like Kala Sanghian and Malsian.
According to technical reports, the Kathgarh lift scheme in the Balachaur region saw marked improvements in its operational capacity. Infrastructure strengthening in regions such as Mukandpur, Apra, and Nurmahal has also allowed for a smoother transition to canal-based farming. Authorities asserted that the transformation is designed to restore resilience to the agrarian landscape while curbing the over-extraction of groundwater.
In addition to supporting the farming community, the canal’s revival is now assisting with Jalandhar’s urban water requirements. By allocating an extra 150 cusecs to the city’s branch, the state aims to provide a sustainable alternative for the municipal water supply. Officials stated that the project reflects a long-term commitment to securing critical resources and enhancing overall agricultural productivity throughout the region.
