The North News
Chandigarh, June 20
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday approved a comprehensive 14-point action plan under the state’s first Integrated State Water Plan to address the worsening groundwater crisis. The initiative, described as historic, aims to preserve and replenish groundwater while expanding the use of canal water across the state.
Chairing a high-level meeting with the Water Resources Department, Mann said the action plan was prepared after consultations with various departments and experts. “The situation is already alarming,” he said, noting that 115 out of 153 administrative blocks in Punjab have been classified as over-exploited due to excessive groundwater extraction.
The Chief Minister expressed concern over the annual average drop in groundwater levels, currently at 0.7 metres, driven by the extraction of 5.2 billion cubic metres of water. He outlined multiple strategies to combat the crisis, including reducing demand for groundwater, improving irrigation efficiency, and identifying alternative and sustainable water sources such as deep aquifer exploration and surface water use.
The state government has already restored 17,000 abandoned watercourses spanning 6,300 km and 79 canals covering 545 km. Mann said the action plan includes promoting water-efficient technologies like drip and sprinkler irrigation across 1.57 million hectares. He added that pipeline systems would replace open water courses wherever feasible.
Under the plan, excess canal water will be diverted to nearby ponds, which will then feed agricultural fields through lift irrigation systems. The government also plans to construct new ponds and check dams to boost surface water storage.
Emphasising community participation, Mann proposed the creation of Water User Associations to oversee canal management, ensure equitable water distribution, and resolve farmers’ grievances. These bodies will also help maintain canal infrastructure and prevent water loss.
Mann said the initiative will also supply canal water to industries to reduce their dependence on groundwater. “We are committed to building a sustainable, equitable water system that ensures every tail-end user gets their fair share,” he stated.
