Chandigarh: The Punjab government has taken a major step to strengthen the state’s irrigation system through the Bist-Doab canal revival project. This initiative aims to restore the historic canal network and secure the future of farmers in the Doaba region.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the government has successfully increased the irrigated area under the Bist-Doab canal network by an impressive 167% during 2025-26.
Massive Increase in Irrigated Land
As part of the Bist-Doab canal revival, the state has brought 1,10,762 additional acres of land under canal irrigation.
Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal shared this update and said that the expansion has significantly strengthened the agricultural sector. Moreover, it has reduced farmers’ dependence on groundwater and rainfall.
This development has provided much-needed relief to farmers who earlier struggled with water scarcity.
Strengthening the Doaba Agricultural Belt
People consider the Bist-Doab canal the lifeline of the Doaba region. It serves districts such as Jalandhar, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Kapurthala, and Hoshiarpur.
Due to the Bist-Doab canal revival, many areas that previously faced water shortages now receive improved irrigation supply. As a result, the irrigation system has become more stable and efficient.
Furthermore, the improved water flow has enhanced agricultural productivity across the region.
First-Time Canal Water Access to New Areas
One of the major achievements of the Bist-Doab canal revival is that approximately 19,213 acres of agricultural land received canal water for the first time.
This marks a significant milestone for farmers who previously depended only on groundwater and monsoon rains. Now, they can rely on a more stable irrigation source.
In addition, this change is expected to improve crop yield and reduce irrigation costs for farmers.
Improvement in Lift and Distribution Systems
The increased water flow has also strengthened the Katha Garh lift scheme in the Balachaur area. This improvement has enhanced water distribution efficiency in nearby regions.
Moreover, several areas including Banga, Mukandpur, Apra, Nurmahal, Malsian, Nakodar, Adampur, and Kala Sanghian have seen upgrades in irrigation infrastructure.
Rejuvenated distributaries connected to the Jalandhar branch have ensured that canal water reaches even the last agricultural field.
Boost to Rural Economy and Farmer Stability
The Bist-Doab canal revival has not only improved irrigation but also strengthened the rural economy.
Farmers now have more reliable water access, which supports better crop planning and higher productivity. Additionally, reduced dependence on groundwater helps in long-term water conservation.
Therefore, the initiative is expected to bring lasting benefits to agriculture in Punjab.
Government Commitment to Agricultural Reform
Officials stated that the Punjab government remains committed to modernizing irrigation infrastructure. The goal is to ensure sustainable water use and stronger agricultural output.
Moreover, continuous monitoring and improvement of canal systems are being carried out across the state.
Conclusion
The Bist-Doab canal revival marks a historic step in Punjab’s irrigation development. With a 167% increase in irrigated area and new water access for thousands of acres, the project is transforming agriculture in the Doaba region.
This initiative is expected to secure farmers’ livelihoods and strengthen Punjab’s agricultural backbone for years to come.
Key Points of the news:
- Punjab revives Bist-Doab canal, boosting irrigation system.
- Irrigated area increases by 167% in 2025-26.
- Over 1,10,762 acres added under canal irrigation.
- 19,213 acres get canal water for the first time.
- Multiple districts in Doaba region benefit from improved water supply.
