CM Mann calls Ferozepur Feeder lifeline of Malwa, canal project to boost irrigation

Makhu (The Uttam Hindu): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday inaugurated the first phase of reconstruction and relining of the Ferozepur Feeder Canal, describing it as a major step to strengthen irrigation and support farmers in the Malwa region.

The Chief Minister said the canal, considered the lifeline of Malwa, will benefit farmers in the districts of Ferozepur, Faridkot, Sri Muktsar Sahib and Fazilka by improving water supply to agricultural fields.

The project, completed at a cost of about ₹180 crore, has increased the canal’s capacity from 11,192 cusecs to 13,873 cusecs. The Chief Minister said earlier governments had failed to increase the canal’s capacity or carry out proper lining work over several decades, whereas the present government has implemented major improvements.

He said that when the current government assumed office, canal water reached only about 21 percent of Punjab’s agricultural land, but now it reaches nearly 68 percent. The government aims to raise this coverage to 85 percent in the coming years.

The Chief Minister said the relining work increased the canal’s depth and width, which will help provide irrigation to more than 6.45 lakh hectares of land. He added that border areas, especially in Fazilka and Jalalabad, will now receive better irrigation facilities.

Bhagwant Mann said the canal originates from Harike Headworks and provides irrigation to several blocks across the four districts. He added that improvements in the canal system will help reduce water shortages during the crop season.

He reiterated that Punjab does not have surplus water to share with other states and said the interests of the state would remain the top priority. He also criticised previous governments for signing agreements that allowed Punjab’s water to be shared with other states.

The Chief Minister said the state government has spent thousands of crores on strengthening the canal network and reviving watercourses to ensure water reaches farmers at the tail end.

He also said efforts are being made to improve the condition of border villages and provide better facilities to residents. The government is working on measures that will help farmers cultivate land near the international border more easily.

Bhagwant Mann highlighted the government’s initiatives in areas such as free electricity, healthcare services, employment and action against drug trafficking. He said the state government is committed to the welfare of farmers and the overall development of Punjab.

Several ministers and officials were present at the inauguration ceremony.