What Progress Have Rajasthan and Punjab CMs Made on the Ferozepur Feeder Reconstruction Project?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Project Approval: Received from the Central Water Commission.
- Investment Details: Total cost of Rs 647.62 crore shared between Punjab and Rajasthan.
- Capacity Increase: Enhancing irrigation capacity from 11,192 cusecs to 13,842 cusecs.
- Agricultural Impact: Expected to irrigate 3.14 lakh hectares of land.
- Farmers' Welfare: Rajasthan's budget allocation of Rs 200 crore demonstrates commitment.
Jaipur, June 25 (NationPress) Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma engaged in a telephonic discussion with Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday to assess the advancements of the Ferozepur Feeder Reconstruction Project.
This highly anticipated project is set to commence shortly and is projected to provide substantial advantages to farmers in the Ganga Canal region. Chief Minister Sharma referred to this initiative as a pivotal move towards enhancing the Ganga Canal system, regarded as the lifeline for the northwestern districts of Sri Ganganagar and Hanumangarh.
The reconstruction plan received approval during the 158th meeting of the Advisory Committee of the Central Water Commission, convened in New Delhi on April 24, 2025.
The overall budget for the project is set at Rs 647.62 crore, with Punjab contributing Rs 379.12 crore (58.54%) and Rajasthan providing Rs 268.50 crore (41.46%).
Sharma revealed that the Punjab Water Resources Department has granted preliminary approval for Rajasthan's contribution of Rs 268.50 crore. This proposal is currently under evaluation by Rajasthan's Finance Department.
Upon receiving approval, Rajasthan will formally notify Punjab, after which the Punjab Government will submit a funding request to the Central Government.
The Chief Minister stressed that once funding is authorized by the Centre, collaboration with the Punjab Government will be initiated, followed by the commencement of subsequent steps, including tendering.
The state government is determined to start the reconstruction this year and aims for completion within two years. The revamp will enhance the Ferozepur Feeder’s capacity from 11,192 cusecs to 13,842 cusecs. This increased capacity will aid in capturing surplus monsoon water that would otherwise flow into Pakistan, allowing it to be utilized within the Ganga Canal region.
This initiative will guarantee sufficient irrigation for 3.14 lakh hectares of agricultural land, enhancing crop yield and fortifying the agriculture-based economy of the area.
During his visit to Sri Ganganagar in April 2025, Sharma was urged by local leaders and farmers to accelerate the reconstruction efforts.
Acting promptly, he discussed the matter with the Union Jal Shakti Minister. The Central Water Commission responded swiftly, leading to the project's approval.
Importantly, the Rajasthan government has already earmarked Rs 200 crore for the Ferozepur Feeder reconstruction in the 2024–25 state budget, highlighting its commitment to farmers’ welfare.