PAP Canal Lifeline: ₹7 Cr Revamp Seeks State Approval

The Water Resources Department (WRD) has submitted a ₹7.08 crore proposal to the Tamil Nadu government for the rehabilitation of the Parambikulam Aliyar Project (PAP) Canal System.

The proposal is based on a detailed project report (DPR) prepared by Bengaluru-based SECON, which began work in early 2023 following a government order issued in July 2022. Using drone technology, the study covered the entire 124 km stretch of the main canal and its branches.

Farmers, especially those at the tail-end of the canal network, have long called for improvements through micro-irrigation systems to ensure equitable water distribution. Despite the canal system being over 50 years old, only minor repairs have been carried out to date.

The proposed project aims to restore the canal to its original standards through the use of RCC troughs, precast slabs, and RR masonry—measures designed to minimize water loss and improve operational efficiency. Upon receiving state approval, the proposal will be forwarded to the Central Water Commission to explore funding under appropriate central government schemes. Further technical and implementation details will follow post-approval.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.