Chandigarh: Alarmed over rapid depletion of under-ground water in Punjab, the state government has decided to revamp the century-old canal network across the state to improve irrigation and reduce dependence on the ground water.
The canal network, which is now operating at 30 per cent below its stipulated capacity, is proposed to be renovated, an official release said here today.
The water supplying system would be lined and dams would be constructed in the hilly areas for the optimum use of surface and rain water for irrigation purposes, the release said.
The government is seriously contemplating to reduce the dependence on ground water to irrigate wheat and paddy crops under 12th five-year plan.
The state government has already earmarked Rs 1,128 crore for irrigation projects for 2012-13.
PTI
