Balachaur Goes Green: The ₹214 Cr Kathgarh Boost

Barinder Kumar Goyal inaugurated the ₹214 crore Kathgarh Lift Irrigation Project to tackle water scarcity in the semi-hilly belt of Balachaur, marking a significant step toward expanding canal-based irrigation in the region.

Constructed along the right bank of the Bist Doab Canal, the project has a discharge capacity of 67 cusecs and is designed to lift canal water to higher elevation areas that were previously beyond the reach of existing canal systems. It targets regions where groundwater levels have dropped beyond 1,000 feet, offering a sustainable alternative through surface water use, reducing dependency on groundwater, and enhancing agricultural productivity while strengthening long-term water security.

The project is being executed in multiple phases. The first stage, currently underway, has a 22-cusec capacity and will irrigate around 5,000 acres across 13 villages through an 83 km distribution network, supported by one distributary and seven outlets, powered by 300 HP motors and 675 kW of solar energy. The second stage will extend irrigation to 6,500 acres in 14 villages with a 32-cusec capacity, incorporating three distributaries, 11 outlets, and a 100 km network, with completion targeted for September 2026. The third stage, currently in the design phase, will cover an additional 2,500 acres with a 13-cusec capacity.

In total, the initiative will include five distributaries and 23 outlets, engaging around 200 workers and 50 officials along with heavy machinery. The project reflects the Government of Punjab’s broader push to modernise irrigation infrastructure and promote sustainable water management practices.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.