In a landmark development for the Malwa region, Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated the first phase of the renovation of the Ferozepur Feeder Canal, calling it a historic gift for farmers and a new ray of hope for irrigation in Punjab.
Originating from Harike Headworks, the canal is considered the lifeline for the districts of Ferozepur, Faridkot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, and Fazilka. The Chief Minister announced that the ₹180 crore project has enhanced the canal’s capacity by 2,681 cusecs — increasing it from 11,192 cusecs to 13,873 cusecs.
Rapid Completion in 35 Days
The 15-kilometre lining work was completed in just 35 days on a war footing, involving 126 government employees and nearly 4,000 workers.
With the renovation, the canal’s depth has increased from 18 feet to 21 feet, and its width from 163 feet to 180 feet. The project will now provide irrigation water to 6,45,200 hectares of agricultural land.
Fourteen blocks — Gidderbaha, Makhu, Mamdot, Balluana, Jalalabad, Guru Har Sahai, Arniwala, Khuiyan Sarwar, Lambi, Malout, Fazilka, Muktsar, and Ferozepur — will directly benefit from the enhanced water supply.
Major Jump in Canal Water Utilization
CM Mann stated that when his government assumed office, only 21% of canal water was being used for irrigation. Today, that figure has risen to 68%, with a target to reach 85% by the upcoming paddy season.
He highlighted that restoration of 6,900 km of water channels covering 18,349 outlets has significantly improved water delivery to tail-end areas.
Firm Stand on Water Sharing
Reiterating Punjab’s stance on water distribution, Mann asserted that the state has no surplus water to share with other states. He said that issues related to the Satluj-Yamuna Link (SYL) can only be resolved through a Yamuna-Sutlej Link and assured that Punjab’s interests would not be compromised.
Boost for Border Areas and Groundwater
The Chief Minister also announced that border regions such as Fazilka and Jalalabad will now receive clean water through the Ferozepur Feeder. A water recharge system has been initiated to improve groundwater levels.
Additionally, he revealed that the central government has granted in-principle approval to shift the border fencing closer to the international boundary, which will help farmers access thousands of acres of farmland currently trapped beyond the fence.
The renovation is expected to eliminate seasonal water shortages and strengthen the economic foundation of Malwa farmers for years to come.
