Ropar, May 14: The Punjab government announced a significant expansion in the state’s irrigation capabilities on Monday, reporting a 167 percent increase in the area covered by the Bist Doab Canal network for the 2025-26 agricultural year. Official data indicates that the revitalized system has brought an additional 110,762 acres under canal irrigation, providing a boost to farmers across the Doaba region.
Originating from the Ropar Headworks, the canal and its associated field channels underwent extensive restoration to improve water flow and distribution efficiency. This rejuvenation project has reached several districts, including Jalandhar, Kapurthala, SBS Nagar, and Hoshiarpur. Authorities stated that for the first time in the network’s history, 19,213 acres of farmland received canal water, transitioning many growers away from a traditional reliance on rainfall and groundwater.
The infrastructure upgrades have specifically bolstered the lift irrigation system in the Balachaur region through the Kathgarh scheme. Furthermore, the restoration of distributaries connected to the Jalandhar branch has improved water delivery to areas such as Nakodar, Adampur, and Banga. Officials maintained that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to modernize the state’s agricultural resources and ensure sustainable water management for future generations.
Beyond agricultural benefits, the project has been integrated into urban planning. An additional 150 cusecs of water have been diverted to the Jalandhar branch to supplement the city’s potable water supply. Government representatives noted that this move is intended to reduce the Jalandhar Municipal Corporation’s dependence on declining groundwater levels, creating a more reliable utility system for residents.
