Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced an ambitious irrigation expansion plan aimed at transforming agricultural water access across the state. The government will lay 7,000 kilometers of new pipelines by the end of this year to ensure that canal water reaches every possible farmland, significantly improving irrigation coverage for farmers.
The initiative is expected to bring nearly 80% of agricultural land under assured irrigation, offering major relief to the farming community and strengthening Punjab’s water distribution network.
Major Expansion in Irrigation Infrastructure
The Chief Minister stated that the state government has already laid 14,000 kilometers of pipelines over the last four years, and the new expansion will further strengthen the irrigation system.
According to officials, the pipeline network is being developed to reduce dependency on groundwater and improve efficient use of canal water across rural areas.
Water Management and Groundwater Recharge Efforts
Bhagwant Mann also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve water availability in Punjab. He said that 21,000 cusecs of water has been released to strengthen water flow in canals and rivers.
The government has also developed multiple recharge points in canals and river systems, resulting in a reported rise in groundwater levels by 2 to 4 meters in several regions. These steps are aimed at long-term water sustainability in the state.
Political Remarks and Criticism of Opposition
During a public outreach event, the Chief Minister also targeted opposition leader Sukhbir Badal, stating that leaders rejected by the public are now uniting against his government.
He said that such political opposition reflects discomfort with the government’s performance and asserted that the people of Punjab will not allow those accused of misgovernance to return to power.
Government’s Development Agenda
The Chief Minister emphasized that his government is focused on public welfare and development-driven governance. He highlighted several initiatives including:
- Free electricity schemes for households
- Transparent and corruption-free government jobs for youth
- Improved road infrastructure
- Closure of toll plazas to reduce public expenses
He said these measures are aimed at improving living standards and ensuring economic relief for citizens across Punjab.
Anti-Drug Campaign “War Against Drugs”
Bhagwant Mann also reiterated his government’s commitment to fighting drug abuse under the “Yudh Nashe Virudh” (War Against Drugs) campaign. He said the initiative has helped weaken drug networks and led to the arrest of major traffickers and mafia-linked networks.
The Chief Minister called for stronger public participation to eliminate the drug menace from the state completely and ensure a healthier future for Punjab’s youth.
The Punjab government’s large-scale pipeline expansion and water management reforms mark a significant push toward agricultural modernization. Combined with welfare schemes and anti-drug initiatives, the administration aims to position Punjab on a path of sustainable development, improved irrigation, and social reform.
