Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Irrigation and Water Resources Department has launched a major initiative to reinforce the state’s irrigation infrastructure, aiming to boost agricultural productivity and strengthen the rural economy. In the financial year 2025–26, the department will undertake seven new drainage projects across five districts, alongside an extensive drive to clean 17,500 kilometres of existing drains.
The new projects, approved at a total cost of ₹74.33 crore, will be implemented in Bahraich, Bijnor, Gonda, Hapur and Meerut. Gonda, Hapur and Meerut will each get one new drain project, while Bijnor and Bahraich will see two projects each. The initiative is designed to improve water drainage systems, ensure efficient water management and provide better irrigation facilities to farmers.
Officials said the projects are aligned with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of “Har Khet Ko Pani” (Water to Every Field). Once completed, the strengthened drainage network is expected to facilitate smoother water flow, reduce waterlogging and enhance irrigation access in the respective regions.
In addition to new construction, the department has set a target to clean 17,500 km of drains during the 2025–26 fiscal year. Regular desilting is crucial as heavy silt accumulation due to floods and year-round usage often obstructs water flow to agricultural fields. So far, approximately 11,065 km of drains have already been cleaned, with the remaining work scheduled for completion by March 2026.
The department is closely monitoring the progress to ensure timely and quality execution of the works. Authorities believe that the combined impact of new drainage infrastructure and large-scale desilting will not only enhance irrigation efficiency but also significantly reduce the risks of flooding and waterlogging in rural areas.
With improved water management and better access to irrigation, the state government expects a positive impact on crop yields, farmers’ incomes and overall rural living standards in the coming years.
