The Indira Gandhi Canal, often referred to as the ‘Maruganga’ of Rajasthan, has dramatically altered the social, economic, and environmental landscape of the desert state. Originally known as the Rajasthan Canal, its construction spanned from 1952 to 2010, making it the longest canal in India. This engineering marvel was renamed in honor of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and has been pivotal in initiating agricultural activities in the arid fields of Rajasthan.
Historical Background and Construction
The construction of the Indira Gandhi Canal began in 1952 but faced several political hurdles. It wasn’t until 1983, under the leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, that the project gained momentum. The canal, fed by the Sutlej and Beas rivers, was completed in 2010 during Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister. Spanning a length of 445 kilometers, with an additional 204 kilometers added later, the canal now stretches 650 kilometers, connecting Rajasthan with Punjab.
Purpose and Impact
The primary objective of the Indira Gandhi Canal was to develop agricultural activities in the parched regions of Rajasthan. The canal has a daily discharge of 18,000 cusecs of water, significantly alleviating the water crisis in the ‘Thar’ desert. The water from the canal irrigates seven districts in Rajasthan, including Churu, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Barmer, Bikaner, and Sri Ganganagar, transforming them into fertile agricultural zones. This has provided farmers with a reliable water source, enabling them to cultivate various crops and boosting their income and the region’s economic growth.
Environmental and Social Benefits
The Indira Gandhi Canal has not only revolutionized agriculture but also addressed the drinking water scarcity in Rajasthan. The Harike Barrage, a critical component of the canal, stores a massive amount of water, which is used by different industries and communities. This has led to the establishment of several drinking water companies in the region, further supporting local economies.
Economic Growth and Agricultural Development
The canal project, which covers an area of 528,000 hectares, has been a catalyst for economic growth in Rajasthan and Punjab. The estimated cost of the project was ₹64 crore, a significant investment at the time. The project was overseen by Knawer Sen, who played a crucial role in its execution. The canal features nine branches and a feeder canal of 204 kilometers, with 34 kilometers in Rajasthan, 19 kilometers in Haryana, and 51 kilometers in Punjab.
The Indian government secured a loan from the World Bank for this project, highlighting its importance. The project officially commenced on October 11, 1961, under the direction of Dr. Radhakrishan, who initiated the water flow from the Narungadeashar distributary to the Rataeshwa branch.
Summing Up
The Indira Gandhi Canal stands as one of India’s most significant infrastructural achievements, transforming the arid landscapes of Rajasthan into fertile agricultural land. Originally named the Rajasthan Canal, it was renamed in 1984 to honor Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The canal’s extensive reach from Punjab to Rajasthan has been instrumental in supporting agricultural development, alleviating water scarcity, and improving the quality of life for residents in desert regions like Bikaner and Jaisalmer. As a lifeline for the region, the Indira Gandhi Canal continues to play a vital role in the socio-economic development of Rajasthan.