Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently visited the village of Doda in Gidderbaha to assess the ongoing technical survey for the proposed Malwa Canal project. Mann stated that this new canal, once completed, will be the first such project undertaken in Punjab since Independence.
Stretching 149 km long and designed to be 50 feet wide and 12.5 feet deep, the Malwa Canal is expected to have a capacity of 2,000 cusecs. It will originate from the Harike Barrage and run along unutilised land in Rajasthan near the Rajasthan Feeder Canal. The canal is projected to irrigate 200,000 acres of farmland across 62 villages in Muktsar, Fazilka and Ferozepur districts, directly benefiting thousands of farmers. Nearly half of the total 1,328 acres required for the canal will be acquired from local landowners through the due process.
During his visit, Mann surveyed the proposed canal route and water pumping systems currently used by farmers sourcing from nearby feeder canals. He commented that as a frequent visitor to the region in the past, he was aware of the hardships faced by local farmers struggling with inadequate irrigation facilities. The CM assured villagers that the Malwa Canal will resolve their water woes within the next six to eight months after commencement of construction. He further questioned the inaction of previous state governments on this crucial issue.
Mann also addressed Anganwadi worker protests during the event, promising resolution of their demands for improved ration quality and facilities.
The new Malwa Canal, once completed, is set to boost agricultural production and strengthen water security across south Malwa region of the state. It will aid the state government’s efforts to modernise Punjab’s irrigation infrastructure and support farmers.
