Punjab Govt Enhances Water Management

Punjab Government Revolutionizes Water Management with Rs. 277-Cr Projects

Transformative Projects for Irrigation, Water Conservation, and Agricultural Sustainability

The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal, has marked a significant milestone in 2024 by initiating major reforms in water management and agriculture. These groundbreaking projects are set to reshape the state’s irrigation system and promote sustainable agricultural growth.

Two NABARD-funded projects, worth Rs. 277.57 crore, are aimed at enhancing the underground pipeline-based irrigation network. These projects will benefit over 40,000 hectares, ensuring effective water distribution and promoting environmental sustainability across the state.

Additionally, 18 underground pipeline-based irrigation projects have been launched to utilize 67 MLD of treated water from sewage treatment plants, benefiting over 2,200 hectares. These projects have an investment exceeding Rs. 50 crore and focus on using alternative surface water sources.

To improve irrigation in remote and tail-end areas, the government has laid 860 kilometers of underground pipelines, benefitting over 10,800 hectares. To support farmers, the government has provided subsidies of 90% for farmers’ groups and 50% for individual farmers to adopt these projects.

As part of water conservation efforts, 1,874 hectares have been brought under drip and sprinkler irrigation systems with subsidies of up to 90%. Additionally, Solar-Lift Irrigation projects have been implemented in 27 villages using village pond water to reduce groundwater depletion.

In a further push for water conservation, 42 Water Harvesting-cum-recharging structures and Check Dams have been constructed in Punjab’s Kandi area, contributing to rainwater conservation, soil protection, and flood prevention.

Minister Goyal stated that 2024 has been a pivotal year for Punjab, emphasizing the state’s comprehensive approach to water management. With projects like maximizing surface water usage from canals and ponds, constructing check dams, and implementing rainwater recharging systems, the government aims to ensure long-term water security and agricultural sustainability for farmers in Punjab.

Through these transformative efforts, the Punjab Government is paving the way for a water-secure and agriculturally sustainable future for the state.