Punjab’s ₹15-Cr Irrigation Projects: Minister Goyal Inaugurates New Minors and Bridge in Sardulgarh
Punjab Enhances Irrigation Infrastructure with ₹15-Cr Project in Sardulgarh Constituency
Chandigarh/Mansa, March 31, 2025: In a significant move to enhance water accessibility for farmers, Punjab’s Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal on Monday inaugurated four new irrigation minors and a vital bridge in the Sardulgarh constituency of Mansa district. These infrastructure projects, completed at a total cost of approximately ₹15 crore, are set to revolutionize the water supply system for over 13,000 acres of farmland in the region.
The newly inaugurated projects include four minors: Rorki Minor, Khaira Minor, Jhanda Minor, and Minor No-11 Boha Distributary, designed to provide both drinking and irrigation water to multiple villages. Additionally, a steel footbridge over the Ghaggar River was also unveiled, improving connectivity between rural communities.
Boosting Water Access in Sardulgarh: A Game-Changer for Farmers
The Rorki Minor, the longest of the four, spans over 45,000 feet and will supply irrigation water to over 7,600 acres of land in multiple villages, including Ahlupur, Kauriwara, and Bhallanwala. Similarly, the Khaira Minor, with a length of 22,040 feet, will irrigate 1,934 acres in villages such as Khaira Khurd and Sardulgarh.
The Jhanda Minor, covering 19,180 feet, will benefit 2,586 acres, while the Minor No.-11 Boha Distributary, at 22,575 feet, will serve 4,114 acres of farmland. These projects are expected to greatly improve the water supply system, especially in areas that have struggled with inconsistent irrigation access.
Barinder Kumar Goyal, during his speech, emphasized that the new minors and the bridge are crucial steps toward addressing the region’s water challenges, particularly in the face of growing concerns over groundwater depletion.
A Historic Bridge for Improved Connectivity
In addition to the irrigation projects, Barinder Kumar Goyal also inaugurated a steel footbridge over the Ghaggar River, built at a cost of ₹2.10 crore. The bridge, which took one year to complete, replaces an older structure that was destroyed during the 2023 floods. It is designed to withstand heavy water flow, ensuring safe passage for residents from three to four villages who rely on this route for daily commuting.
The new bridge spans 94 meters and has a three-meter width, making it resilient to fluctuating river levels and enabling smoother transportation for locals, especially farmers.
Minister Goyal Reflects on Punjab’s Water Infrastructure
Addressing the press, Barinder Kumar Goyal highlighted the progress made under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, focusing on the government’s commitment to strengthening Punjab’s water infrastructure. The Punjab government has, over the past few years, focused heavily on rehabilitating and constructing watercourses, laying 4,500 kilometers of underground pipes, and spending ₹4,557 crore on canal development.
This investment has more than doubled the funding provided by previous governments, showcasing the Mann government’s dedication to improving irrigation and water distribution.
Moreover, the relining of the Sirhind Feeder at a cost of ₹35 crore has significantly increased the canal’s water capacity, benefiting districts like Mansa, Patiala, and Sangrur. This project, which upgraded about 25 kilometers of the canal, boosted water delivery from 900 cusecs to 1,600 cusecs, supporting agriculture in the region.
Tackling Water Inequality and Previous Governments’ Failures
In his address, Goyal also criticized past governments for their unequal distribution of water, which had been politicized for personal gain. “Previous leaders allocated water resources based on political influence, leaving many areas underserved. This injustice is being rectified,” he said.
Under the current regime, water allocation for Sardulgarh district has been increased from two cusecs to three cusecs, benefiting the agricultural community and ensuring better access to irrigation.
Goyal also called on the Union Government to fulfill its responsibility towards Punjab’s water crisis. He argued that the state, which has been instrumental in feeding the nation’s agricultural needs, now requires ₹17,000 crore for essential water infrastructure projects, including the construction of canals and the laying of pipes. “The Union government must focus on action rather than offering advice on how to manage Punjab’s water resources,” he remarked.
Support from Local Leadership
- Gurpreet Singh Banawali, the MLA of Sardulgarh, praised the government’s initiatives to bring canal water to tail-end areas, which is crucial for conserving groundwater. He credited the Mann government for making canal irrigation accessible to regions that had long struggled with water scarcity.
Banawali assured the public that the Punjab government will continue supporting farmers and ensuring their access to better irrigation facilities. The inauguration of the new minors and bridge marks a significant milestone in the Sardulgarh constituency’s development.
Conclusion: Moving Towards a Water-Secure Future
The Sardulgarh irrigation projects, including the four minors and the new bridge, are a step toward securing the future of agriculture in Mansa district. With these initiatives, Punjab is moving closer to addressing its water crisis and ensuring sustainable irrigation practices for its farmers.
The project reflects the Punjab government’s ongoing commitment to water conservation, rural development, and addressing the needs of the agricultural community. As the Mann government continues to invest in water infrastructure, farmers in Sardulgarh and beyond can expect improved irrigation access, contributing to greater agricultural productivity and sustainability.