Indus Canals Network : In a bold move following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, India has decided to rebuild and expand its century-old canal network linked to the Indus river system — a major step aimed at boosting irrigation and reducing dependence on the monsoon.
Indus Canals Network?
India is gearing up to upgrade key canals in Jammu & Kashmir, including the Ranbir, Kathua, and New Partap canals. These water channels were originally constructed over 100 years ago but have remained largely unchanged due to restrictions under the treaty.
Now, with the treaty paused, the government is moving fast to approve projects that were stuck on paper for decades.
Why does it matter?
Farmers in Jammu and nearby regions rely heavily on canal water for irrigation. But limited capacity, late monsoon arrival, and outdated infrastructure have made farming increasingly difficult.
Upgrading these canals will allow better water flow, increased agricultural output, and less stress on groundwater resources.
Details of the expansion:
- Ranbir Canal (built in 1905) is around 60 km long and caters to the Jammu region.
- New Partap Canal serves Akhnoor and was designed for 16,500 hectares, but only around 9,000 hectares are currently benefitting due to poor maintenance.
- Desilting and repair works will also be carried out across other canals like Tawi Lift, Paragwal, Ravi, and Kathua.
New Dams and Water Projects in Kashmir
Alongside the canal revival, the Centre is also pushing forward with stalled dam projects such as Kishenganga, Ratle, Pakal Dul, and the Tulbul navigation project on Wular Lake.
These projects are expected to improve both irrigation and power generation capacity in the region.
Pakistan’s reaction
Pakistan has strongly opposed India’s suspension of the treaty and warned that any move to divert or restrict water flow to their side would be considered an “act of war.”
India, however, says the treaty has become outdated, pointing to changing climate patterns, technological advancements, and reduced water flow to eastern tributaries.
What’s next?
Final clearances are being worked out, and phased development is expected to begin soon under central guidance. The goal is clear — full utilisation of irrigation potential and boosting the command area of these canals.
As Jammu’s water woes find some relief, this could mark a major shift in how India manages its water resources in the long term.
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