CHANDIGARH, July 31 — Thousands of farming families in Patiala district are set to benefit from upgraded canal systems and flood protection works following the formal opening of major irrigation facilities at Badshahpur and Buta Singh Wala. The projects represent a combined developmental effort by the Department of Water Resources to strengthen rural infrastructure and secure agricultural livelihoods against water scarcity and seasonal flooding.
Under the comprehensive development plan, 137.13 kilometers of water channels were restored and modernized, expanding surface water reach across 56 villages in the Shutrana area. Supplementary underground pipelines covering nearly 54 kilometers were also laid to ensure water reaches previously underserved farmland, helping reduce reliance on groundwater extraction.
Highlighting the scope of the project, Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal declared that state initiatives continue to prioritize rural growth and agricultural resilience. “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is expanding canal irrigation across the state,” Mr. Goyal affirmed during his visit to the region.
Parallel to the canal expansion, drainage authorities completed essential riverbank reinforcement works along the Ghaggar River to mitigate flood risks during heavy rains. Structural fortifications using wire mesh and stone pitching were executed across critical segments, while a new river gauge station is being established at Badshahpur for real-time monitoring. Local representatives and community members welcomed the infrastructure upgrades, noting that the enhanced canal network will provide consistent irrigation for upcoming crop cycles.
