Punjab Pushes Historic Irrigation Upgrade Delivering Canal Water To Long-Dry Farms Transforming Agriculture Across The State
Punjab is witnessing a rare turnaround in irrigation as canal water has reached fields that stayed dry for years. The change reflects a major policy shift under the Bhagwant Mann government.
For decades, thousands of farmers waited for water they paid taxes to receive but never got. That wait is now ending. Government data shows canal-water coverage rising from 68 percent earlier to nearly 84 percent today. This is not a small shift. It directly affects crop planning and farmer income. Those who had stopped hoping for canal supply are now seeing water flow through fields again. Punjab’s map of irrigation has gained new colour. The impact is real and felt at farm level.
What Changed On The Ground This Time?
The state launched a targeted repair mission under the Integrated Provincial Water Scheme. Instead of fresh announcements, broken systems were fixed. More than 15,900 water channels were restored in months of steady work. Water now runs again in 900-plus canals and minors that once turned into dry ditches. Villages previously left out of irrigation networks are finally connected. The change shows how governance looks when maintenance is not ignored. Silent work has delivered loud results.
Why Are Pipelines Called The Game-Changer?
Punjab has laid 2,400 kilometres of underground pipelines to cut wastage. These pipes carry water straight to farms with no side loss. Nearly 30,300 hectares have come under fresh irrigation because of this shift. Farmers say pipelines bring “fair share” — everyone gets water at the same time and in the same pressure. The system is designed for long service life and transparent flow. It leaves little room for old complaints. A stronger, cleaner supply means more stable crops.
How Emotional Was The First Flow In Many Villages?
In Sri Anandpur Sahib region, fields that knew drought for 35–40 years suddenly saw water. Farmers stood silent for a moment, then celebrated loudly. They credited chief minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and MLA Harjot Singh Bains for delivering what many earlier governments only promised. Elderly farmers said the sight reminded them of old days when canals meant prosperity. The happiness is visible on every face. Irrigation success has turned into community relief.
Can Punjab Now Save Its Falling Groundwater?
This time the answer is yes — and with numbers. Treated water supply has reached 300 million litres per day, through 28 different projects. Modern irrigation is being pushed with heavy subsidies: 90 percent for groups and 50 percent for individuals using drip and sprinkler. Solar-based lift irrigation and water harvesting have been taken to 125 villages and 160 locations in the Kandi belt. Punjab is not just bringing water-it is using water wisely. The long-term aim is balance, not over-extraction.
What Is Mann Government’s Larger Strategy?
The goal is to ensure a reliable water route to every farm, not a selective few. Irrigation should not depend on luck or lobbying. Farmers must feel secure before sowing. Higher yields come from better irrigation, and that means stable income. Mann wants Punjab to be known not only for farming, but for smart farming. This approach marries tradition with efficiency. The model is gaining attention because results have arrived first, slogans after.
What Does The Success Signal For Punjab’s Future?
Once water returns, everything else follows. Employment rises, farm debt falls, and village economy strengthens. Young farmers show interest again because farming looks profitable. Punjab’s confidence, long hurt by water scarcity, is rebuilding. Green fields are coming back where brown patches once spread. Real development is visible when hope increases faster than statistics. If every acre keeps receiving water like this, Punjab will write a fresh agriculture story — one where no field stays thirsty again.
