CM Mann announces Canal Irrigation Revolution in Punjab: Water reach soars from 26 % to 78 %; Watch Video
Babusbhahi Bureau
Chandigarh, March 18, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday presented a four-year report card highlighting historic improvements in the state’s canal irrigation system.
Speaking to the media, he revealed that from April 2022 to March 2026, the state government invested ₹6,700 crore to strengthen irrigation infrastructure—three times the budget spent by previous governments.
When CM Mann assumed office, only 26.5% of Punjab’s cultivable land (around 26 lakh acres) had access to canal water.
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After four years of concerted efforts, this coverage has surged to 78% (58 lakh acres). The government aims to expand irrigation to 90% of Punjab’s total 76lakh acres of cultivable land.
Highlighting the scale of the transformation, Mann shared that a 22-kilometer “paper-only” canal in Tarn Taran district was discovered underground and reactivated.
With an investment of ₹2,000 crore, 13,938 kilometers of new water channels have been constructed, while 18,349 kilometers of old channels have been restored.
Additionally, 101 seasonal rivers and streams have been rejuvenated, bringing water to 2.75 lakh acres of farmland.
Punjab Demands ₹1.44 Lakh Crore Water Royalty from Rajasthan
On the issue of inter-state water disputes, CM Mann took a firm stand, stating that from 1960 to 2026, Rajasthan owes Punjab nearly ₹1.44 lakh crore in pending water royalty.
The Punjab government has already sent a formal letter demanding dues under the 1920 agreement.
Mann emphasized that Punjab is committed to conserving water for future generations, following the principle: “Pavan Guru, Pani Pita, Mata Dharti Mahat.”