Malwa Canal: 2 Lakh Acres of New Hope for Punjab Farmers

The Punjab government has begun land acquisition in Muktsar district for the proposed Malwa Canal Project, which is expected to benefit the districts of Ferozepur, Faridkot, and Muktsar.

The canal will originate from the Harike Headworks and is planned to span 149 km in length, 50 feet wide, and 12.5 feet deep, with a carrying capacity of 2,000 cusecs. Once completed, it has the potential to irrigate nearly 2 lakh acres of farmland. Describing it as Punjab’s first new canal project since Independence, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann visited the project site in Doda village last year to review progress.

The Water Resources Department (WRD) has issued a notification restricting land transactions in 22 villages along the proposed alignment unless approved by the District Collector. Of the total 822 acres required for the project, 496 acres lie in Muktsar district, covering 77 km of the canal stretch.

To ensure smooth execution, the government has appointed administrators for rehabilitation and resettlement, with a focus on minimizing displacement and supporting affected communities.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.