UP Minister Issues Strict Deadline for Water Resource Projects, Demands Accountability
In a decisive move to accelerate infrastructure development, Uttar Pradesh Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh has mandated that all ongoing projects under the irrigation and water resources department must be completed by December 2026. The minister issued this directive during a high-level review meeting held at the department's headquarters in Lucknow on Tuesday, warning that any form of laxity, negligence, or indifference in work culture will not be tolerated.
Emphasis on Quality, Timelines, and Transparency
Chairing the meeting, Minister Singh emphasized that strict action will be taken against concerned officers and executing agencies if any compromise on quality or timelines is detected. He stressed the critical need for monthly monitoring of every project, timely removal of bottlenecks, and unwavering adherence to principles of transparency and accountability. Expressing his displeasure over the slow progress observed in some projects, Singh reiterated that the ultimate objective is to ensure that the benefits of irrigation and water resource schemes reach farmers and citizens promptly.
Review of Expenditure and Heritage Preservation
The minister also conducted a thorough review of departmental expenditure, instructing officials to ensure timely, transparent, and result-oriented utilization of the sanctioned budget. In a notable directive, Singh ordered that tubewells constructed before Independence should be preserved as "heritage tubewells," highlighting their historical significance.
Focus on Key Projects and Economic Goals
During the meeting, detailed assessments were carried out on key flood control, irrigation, and mechanical sector projects. Special attention was given to the Vrindavan–Mathura river ghats expansion, renovation, and beautification project, with instructions to complete the work within the stipulated timeline while maintaining high-quality standards. Aligning with the state's ambitious goal of becoming a 1-trillion-dollar economy, Singh reviewed nine major projects scheduled for completion in the coming years. These include:
- Middle Ganga Canal Project (Phase II)
- Erich Multipurpose Dam Project
- Badaun Irrigation Project
- Bhaurat Dam Project
- Kichha Barrage Project
- Rampur Barrage Project
- Rohin River Project
- Construction works of Rohin Barrage-3 in Maharajganj district
Singh directed that all these projects be executed in a time-bound manner with full transparency and rigorous quality control measures.
Achievements and Targets in Road and Canal Works
Officials provided updates on various initiatives, reporting that under the road pothole-free programme for 2025–26, 100% of the target of 905.70 km was achieved. Additionally, road renewal work was completed on 1,155.17 km against a target of 1,495.08 km. The minister instructed that the remaining works be finalized at the earliest opportunity.
Reviewing canal desilting under the Rabi 1433 fasli season, Singh expressed satisfaction that 54,094.798 km of desilting was completed against a target of 50,920.677 km, achieving 106.23% of the goal. He directed officials to maintain this impressive pace. In terms of tail-end water supply, water reached 9,945 tails against a target of 10,634, achieving 93.52%, with instructions to prioritize the remaining tails.
Farmer Engagement and Environmental Concerns
To foster better communication with the agricultural community, the minister directed officials to organize regular ‘chaupals’ at the tail ends of canals, establishing direct dialogue with farmers. Expressing serious concern over pollution in rivers and canals, Singh instructed departments to coordinate closely and implement effective remedial measures. He also called for regular reviews of the "health status" of canals, ensuring timely maintenance and repair works to sustain infrastructure integrity.
