Uttar Pradesh Unveils Major Drainage Infrastructure Push for 2025-26
The Irrigation and Water Resources Department of Uttar Pradesh has unveiled a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at bolstering the state's water management capabilities. In a strategic move to enhance agricultural productivity and mitigate flooding risks, the department has announced the construction of seven new drainage projects during the financial year 2025-26.
Project Details and Financial Allocation
Officials have confirmed that these critical projects will be implemented across five key districts: Bahraich, Bijnor, Gonda, Hapur, and Meerut. The total approved cost for this ambitious undertaking stands at an impressive Rs 74.3 crore. The distribution of projects is as follows:
- One drainage project each in Gonda, Hapur, and Meerut
- Two projects each in Bijnor and Bahraich
This targeted approach aims to address specific regional water management challenges, with a primary focus on reducing persistent waterlogging issues that have plagued agricultural areas.
Comprehensive Drain Maintenance Initiative
Alongside the new construction projects, the department is executing a massive drain cleaning operation across the state. For the 2025-26 period, authorities have set an ambitious target of cleaning 17,500 kilometers of existing drains to improve water flow efficiency and substantially reduce flood risks in rural regions.
Officials reported that significant progress has already been made, with approximately 11,065 kilometers of drains already cleaned. The remaining work is scheduled for completion by March, ensuring the entire network is optimized before the next monsoon season.
Expected Benefits and Long-term Impact
The combined strategy of new infrastructure development and systematic maintenance is expected to deliver multiple benefits:
- Reduced Waterlogging: New drainage systems will help channel excess water away from agricultural fields and populated areas
- Enhanced Irrigation: Improved water management will support more reliable irrigation for farming communities
- Flood Mitigation: Regular desilting and maintenance of existing drains will help prevent overflow during heavy rainfall
- Agricultural Support: Consistent water flow to fields will boost crop yields and farming sustainability
Department officials emphasized that these initiatives represent a comprehensive approach to water resource management. "Improved drainage infrastructure combined with regular maintenance creates a sustainable system that benefits both agriculture and flood control," explained one department representative. "This investment addresses immediate waterlogging concerns while building long-term resilience against climate-related challenges in low-lying rural areas."
The projects underscore the state government's commitment to modernizing Uttar Pradesh's irrigation infrastructure and addressing water management challenges that have historically affected both agricultural productivity and community safety during monsoon seasons.
