Major Canals of India | Oxford Student ATLAS: Maps & Tests - UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


Major Canals of India 
 
 
 
Map: Major Canals- India 
Introduction 
Canals, the lifelines of water transportation and irrigation, weave a remarkable 
network across the diverse landscape of India. These human-made waterways 
enable the passage of boats and ships, connecting bodies of water and facilitating 
the transport of water for various purposes. Discover the fascinating world of 
Page 2


Major Canals of India 
 
 
 
Map: Major Canals- India 
Introduction 
Canals, the lifelines of water transportation and irrigation, weave a remarkable 
network across the diverse landscape of India. These human-made waterways 
enable the passage of boats and ships, connecting bodies of water and facilitating 
the transport of water for various purposes. Discover the fascinating world of 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
canals in India as we delve into their types, functions, and some of the most 
significant canals that shape the nation's development. 
Types of Canals 
Canals in India can be categorized into two types: waterways and aqueducts. 
Waterways serve as navigable routes within bays, open seas, or even urban 
networks, connecting water bodies. On the other hand, aqueducts are exclusively 
used for transporting water for drinking, agriculture, and hydroelectric power. 
Importance and Functions of Canals 
Canals, channels, and reservoirs constructed, maintained, or controlled by the 
State Government play crucial roles in water supply and storage. They facilitate 
irrigation, ensuring the agricultural productivity of vast expanses of land. 
Additionally, canals serve as vital water transportation routes, supporting trade 
and commerce, and contribute to the generation of hydroelectric power. 
Major Canals in India 
1.  Upper Ganges Canal 
The Upper Ganges Canal, originating from the Bhimgoda Barrage near Haridwar, 
embarks on a 1412 km journey, traversing Meerut, Bulandshahr, and Aligarh 
districts. This canal bifurcates into the Kanpur and Etawah branches at Nanau, 
irrigating the fertile Doab region of India. Unlock an additional INR 200 discount 
today with the EDUREV200 coupon. Avail the Offer! 
2. Lower Ganges Canal 
Serving as the lower part of the Ganga Canal, the Lower Ganges Canal begins at 
Narora, near Bulandshahar. The canal branches into two main divisions, namely 
the Bhognipur Branch, which commences near Jera village, and the Kanpur & 
Etawah branch. The Bhognipur branch, opened in 1880, contributes to the 
efficient irrigation of the surrounding areas. 
3. Indira Gandhi Canal 
Stretching across a remarkable 649 km, the Indira Gandhi Canal, originally known 
as the Rajasthan Canal, holds the distinction of being the longest canal in India. 
Originating from the Harike Barrage in Punjab, this canal meanders through 
Page 3


Major Canals of India 
 
 
 
Map: Major Canals- India 
Introduction 
Canals, the lifelines of water transportation and irrigation, weave a remarkable 
network across the diverse landscape of India. These human-made waterways 
enable the passage of boats and ships, connecting bodies of water and facilitating 
the transport of water for various purposes. Discover the fascinating world of 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
canals in India as we delve into their types, functions, and some of the most 
significant canals that shape the nation's development. 
Types of Canals 
Canals in India can be categorized into two types: waterways and aqueducts. 
Waterways serve as navigable routes within bays, open seas, or even urban 
networks, connecting water bodies. On the other hand, aqueducts are exclusively 
used for transporting water for drinking, agriculture, and hydroelectric power. 
Importance and Functions of Canals 
Canals, channels, and reservoirs constructed, maintained, or controlled by the 
State Government play crucial roles in water supply and storage. They facilitate 
irrigation, ensuring the agricultural productivity of vast expanses of land. 
Additionally, canals serve as vital water transportation routes, supporting trade 
and commerce, and contribute to the generation of hydroelectric power. 
Major Canals in India 
1.  Upper Ganges Canal 
The Upper Ganges Canal, originating from the Bhimgoda Barrage near Haridwar, 
embarks on a 1412 km journey, traversing Meerut, Bulandshahr, and Aligarh 
districts. This canal bifurcates into the Kanpur and Etawah branches at Nanau, 
irrigating the fertile Doab region of India. Unlock an additional INR 200 discount 
today with the EDUREV200 coupon. Avail the Offer! 
2. Lower Ganges Canal 
Serving as the lower part of the Ganga Canal, the Lower Ganges Canal begins at 
Narora, near Bulandshahar. The canal branches into two main divisions, namely 
the Bhognipur Branch, which commences near Jera village, and the Kanpur & 
Etawah branch. The Bhognipur branch, opened in 1880, contributes to the 
efficient irrigation of the surrounding areas. 
3. Indira Gandhi Canal 
Stretching across a remarkable 649 km, the Indira Gandhi Canal, originally known 
as the Rajasthan Canal, holds the distinction of being the longest canal in India. 
Originating from the Harike Barrage in Punjab, this canal meanders through 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
Haryana and Rajasthan, culminating in the Thar Desert. The canal comprises the 
Rajasthan feeder canal and the Rajasthan main canal, effectively transforming 
arid lands into fertile agricultural regions. 
4. Buckingham Canal 
Tracing a picturesque 796-kilometer path along the Coromandel Coast of South 
India, the Buckingham Canal acts as a vital fresh water navigation route. From 
Kakinada City in Andhra Pradesh to Viluppuram District in Tamil Nadu, this canal 
connects various water bodies, including Pulicat Lake, the Krishna River, and the 
port of Chennai, fostering trade and transport. 
5. Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal 
A project of paramount importance, the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal (SYL) aims to 
establish a crucial commercial connection between the Sutlej and Yamuna rivers. 
While 90 percent of this 214-km-long freight canal has been completed, the 
remaining 10 percent awaits realization. Once fully operational, this canal will 
bolster India's commercial links significantly. 
6. Western Yamuna Canal 
Dating back to the 14th century, the Western Yamuna Canal was initially 
constructed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. Revitalized during the British era in 1817, this 
canal's main channel spans 86 km, with branches extending its length to 325 km. 
Originating from the Hathnikund Barrage near Dehradun, the canal traverses 
multiple regions, including Punjab and Haryana, contributing to extensive 
irrigation. 
7. Sharda Canal 
Embarking on a sprawling network of canals, the Sharda Canal holds the 
distinction of being the longest canal in Uttar Pradesh. This canal, along with its 
branches, spans an impressive length of 938 km, providing vital irrigation and 
water supply to the Pilibhit district and beyond. 
8. Narmada Canal 
In the western region of India, the Narmada Canal stands as a significant 
waterway. Originating from the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat, this canal 
Page 4


Major Canals of India 
 
 
 
Map: Major Canals- India 
Introduction 
Canals, the lifelines of water transportation and irrigation, weave a remarkable 
network across the diverse landscape of India. These human-made waterways 
enable the passage of boats and ships, connecting bodies of water and facilitating 
the transport of water for various purposes. Discover the fascinating world of 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
canals in India as we delve into their types, functions, and some of the most 
significant canals that shape the nation's development. 
Types of Canals 
Canals in India can be categorized into two types: waterways and aqueducts. 
Waterways serve as navigable routes within bays, open seas, or even urban 
networks, connecting water bodies. On the other hand, aqueducts are exclusively 
used for transporting water for drinking, agriculture, and hydroelectric power. 
Importance and Functions of Canals 
Canals, channels, and reservoirs constructed, maintained, or controlled by the 
State Government play crucial roles in water supply and storage. They facilitate 
irrigation, ensuring the agricultural productivity of vast expanses of land. 
Additionally, canals serve as vital water transportation routes, supporting trade 
and commerce, and contribute to the generation of hydroelectric power. 
Major Canals in India 
1.  Upper Ganges Canal 
The Upper Ganges Canal, originating from the Bhimgoda Barrage near Haridwar, 
embarks on a 1412 km journey, traversing Meerut, Bulandshahr, and Aligarh 
districts. This canal bifurcates into the Kanpur and Etawah branches at Nanau, 
irrigating the fertile Doab region of India. Unlock an additional INR 200 discount 
today with the EDUREV200 coupon. Avail the Offer! 
2. Lower Ganges Canal 
Serving as the lower part of the Ganga Canal, the Lower Ganges Canal begins at 
Narora, near Bulandshahar. The canal branches into two main divisions, namely 
the Bhognipur Branch, which commences near Jera village, and the Kanpur & 
Etawah branch. The Bhognipur branch, opened in 1880, contributes to the 
efficient irrigation of the surrounding areas. 
3. Indira Gandhi Canal 
Stretching across a remarkable 649 km, the Indira Gandhi Canal, originally known 
as the Rajasthan Canal, holds the distinction of being the longest canal in India. 
Originating from the Harike Barrage in Punjab, this canal meanders through 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
Haryana and Rajasthan, culminating in the Thar Desert. The canal comprises the 
Rajasthan feeder canal and the Rajasthan main canal, effectively transforming 
arid lands into fertile agricultural regions. 
4. Buckingham Canal 
Tracing a picturesque 796-kilometer path along the Coromandel Coast of South 
India, the Buckingham Canal acts as a vital fresh water navigation route. From 
Kakinada City in Andhra Pradesh to Viluppuram District in Tamil Nadu, this canal 
connects various water bodies, including Pulicat Lake, the Krishna River, and the 
port of Chennai, fostering trade and transport. 
5. Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal 
A project of paramount importance, the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal (SYL) aims to 
establish a crucial commercial connection between the Sutlej and Yamuna rivers. 
While 90 percent of this 214-km-long freight canal has been completed, the 
remaining 10 percent awaits realization. Once fully operational, this canal will 
bolster India's commercial links significantly. 
6. Western Yamuna Canal 
Dating back to the 14th century, the Western Yamuna Canal was initially 
constructed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. Revitalized during the British era in 1817, this 
canal's main channel spans 86 km, with branches extending its length to 325 km. 
Originating from the Hathnikund Barrage near Dehradun, the canal traverses 
multiple regions, including Punjab and Haryana, contributing to extensive 
irrigation. 
7. Sharda Canal 
Embarking on a sprawling network of canals, the Sharda Canal holds the 
distinction of being the longest canal in Uttar Pradesh. This canal, along with its 
branches, spans an impressive length of 938 km, providing vital irrigation and 
water supply to the Pilibhit district and beyond. 
8. Narmada Canal 
In the western region of India, the Narmada Canal stands as a significant 
waterway. Originating from the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat, this canal 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
stretches 534 km, with 460 km in Gujarat and 74 km in Rajasthan. Serving 
primarily as an irrigation canal, it has transformed arid lands, enabling agricultural 
activities across vast areas of western India. 
9. Kakatiya Canal 
The Kakatiya Canal, a crucial waterway in Telangana, finds its source in the Sriram 
Sagar Reservoir. Flowing into the Lower Manair Dam, this 284-km-long canal 
provides irrigation and drinking water to cities such as Nizamabad, Warangal, 
Karimnagar, and Khammam, fostering agricultural prosperity and supporting 
urban development. 
10. Agra Canal 
Originating from the Okla Barrage, 18 km south of Delhi, the Agra Canal serves as 
a vital water source for the regions it traverses. Constructed in 1928, this canal 
draws water from the right bank of the Yamuna River, enabling the irrigation of 
vast tracts of land encompassing Agra, Mathura, Faridabad, and Bharatpur. 
11. Handri Neeva Canal Project 
Spanning a remarkable 569 km, the Handri Neeva Canal Project stands as one of 
the longest canals in the Rayalseema region of South Andhra Pradesh. Serving 
multiple purposes, this canal originates from the Srisailam Reservoir, linking rivers 
like Penna, Chitravati, Mandavya, and Papagni. It supports irrigation, supplies 
drinking water, and facilitates flood control, contributing to the overall 
development of the region. 
12. Sirhind Canal 
Designed primarily for irrigation purposes, the Sirhind Canal finds its origin in the 
Sutlej River near Ropar city in Punjab. Completed in 1882, this canal plays a vital 
role in irrigating the fertile Malwa region of Punjab, enabling agricultural 
productivity and supporting the livelihoods of numerous communities. 
13. Soundane Cut 
Named after the canal originating from the Ujani Dam, the Soundane Cut plays a 
crucial role in water supply and irrigation. Drawing water from the Bhima River, 
Page 5


Major Canals of India 
 
 
 
Map: Major Canals- India 
Introduction 
Canals, the lifelines of water transportation and irrigation, weave a remarkable 
network across the diverse landscape of India. These human-made waterways 
enable the passage of boats and ships, connecting bodies of water and facilitating 
the transport of water for various purposes. Discover the fascinating world of 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
canals in India as we delve into their types, functions, and some of the most 
significant canals that shape the nation's development. 
Types of Canals 
Canals in India can be categorized into two types: waterways and aqueducts. 
Waterways serve as navigable routes within bays, open seas, or even urban 
networks, connecting water bodies. On the other hand, aqueducts are exclusively 
used for transporting water for drinking, agriculture, and hydroelectric power. 
Importance and Functions of Canals 
Canals, channels, and reservoirs constructed, maintained, or controlled by the 
State Government play crucial roles in water supply and storage. They facilitate 
irrigation, ensuring the agricultural productivity of vast expanses of land. 
Additionally, canals serve as vital water transportation routes, supporting trade 
and commerce, and contribute to the generation of hydroelectric power. 
Major Canals in India 
1.  Upper Ganges Canal 
The Upper Ganges Canal, originating from the Bhimgoda Barrage near Haridwar, 
embarks on a 1412 km journey, traversing Meerut, Bulandshahr, and Aligarh 
districts. This canal bifurcates into the Kanpur and Etawah branches at Nanau, 
irrigating the fertile Doab region of India. Unlock an additional INR 200 discount 
today with the EDUREV200 coupon. Avail the Offer! 
2. Lower Ganges Canal 
Serving as the lower part of the Ganga Canal, the Lower Ganges Canal begins at 
Narora, near Bulandshahar. The canal branches into two main divisions, namely 
the Bhognipur Branch, which commences near Jera village, and the Kanpur & 
Etawah branch. The Bhognipur branch, opened in 1880, contributes to the 
efficient irrigation of the surrounding areas. 
3. Indira Gandhi Canal 
Stretching across a remarkable 649 km, the Indira Gandhi Canal, originally known 
as the Rajasthan Canal, holds the distinction of being the longest canal in India. 
Originating from the Harike Barrage in Punjab, this canal meanders through 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
Haryana and Rajasthan, culminating in the Thar Desert. The canal comprises the 
Rajasthan feeder canal and the Rajasthan main canal, effectively transforming 
arid lands into fertile agricultural regions. 
4. Buckingham Canal 
Tracing a picturesque 796-kilometer path along the Coromandel Coast of South 
India, the Buckingham Canal acts as a vital fresh water navigation route. From 
Kakinada City in Andhra Pradesh to Viluppuram District in Tamil Nadu, this canal 
connects various water bodies, including Pulicat Lake, the Krishna River, and the 
port of Chennai, fostering trade and transport. 
5. Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal 
A project of paramount importance, the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal (SYL) aims to 
establish a crucial commercial connection between the Sutlej and Yamuna rivers. 
While 90 percent of this 214-km-long freight canal has been completed, the 
remaining 10 percent awaits realization. Once fully operational, this canal will 
bolster India's commercial links significantly. 
6. Western Yamuna Canal 
Dating back to the 14th century, the Western Yamuna Canal was initially 
constructed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. Revitalized during the British era in 1817, this 
canal's main channel spans 86 km, with branches extending its length to 325 km. 
Originating from the Hathnikund Barrage near Dehradun, the canal traverses 
multiple regions, including Punjab and Haryana, contributing to extensive 
irrigation. 
7. Sharda Canal 
Embarking on a sprawling network of canals, the Sharda Canal holds the 
distinction of being the longest canal in Uttar Pradesh. This canal, along with its 
branches, spans an impressive length of 938 km, providing vital irrigation and 
water supply to the Pilibhit district and beyond. 
8. Narmada Canal 
In the western region of India, the Narmada Canal stands as a significant 
waterway. Originating from the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat, this canal 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
stretches 534 km, with 460 km in Gujarat and 74 km in Rajasthan. Serving 
primarily as an irrigation canal, it has transformed arid lands, enabling agricultural 
activities across vast areas of western India. 
9. Kakatiya Canal 
The Kakatiya Canal, a crucial waterway in Telangana, finds its source in the Sriram 
Sagar Reservoir. Flowing into the Lower Manair Dam, this 284-km-long canal 
provides irrigation and drinking water to cities such as Nizamabad, Warangal, 
Karimnagar, and Khammam, fostering agricultural prosperity and supporting 
urban development. 
10. Agra Canal 
Originating from the Okla Barrage, 18 km south of Delhi, the Agra Canal serves as 
a vital water source for the regions it traverses. Constructed in 1928, this canal 
draws water from the right bank of the Yamuna River, enabling the irrigation of 
vast tracts of land encompassing Agra, Mathura, Faridabad, and Bharatpur. 
11. Handri Neeva Canal Project 
Spanning a remarkable 569 km, the Handri Neeva Canal Project stands as one of 
the longest canals in the Rayalseema region of South Andhra Pradesh. Serving 
multiple purposes, this canal originates from the Srisailam Reservoir, linking rivers 
like Penna, Chitravati, Mandavya, and Papagni. It supports irrigation, supplies 
drinking water, and facilitates flood control, contributing to the overall 
development of the region. 
12. Sirhind Canal 
Designed primarily for irrigation purposes, the Sirhind Canal finds its origin in the 
Sutlej River near Ropar city in Punjab. Completed in 1882, this canal plays a vital 
role in irrigating the fertile Malwa region of Punjab, enabling agricultural 
productivity and supporting the livelihoods of numerous communities. 
13. Soundane Cut 
Named after the canal originating from the Ujani Dam, the Soundane Cut plays a 
crucial role in water supply and irrigation. Drawing water from the Bhima River, 
Major Canals of India 
 
 
this canal is located in Ujani, Madha Taluka, Solapur district, Maharashtra, 
ensuring the efficient distribution of water resources. 
Conclusion 
Canals in India are not merely channels of water transportation; they are vital 
lifelines that connect communities, drive agriculture, and support economic 
growth. From the Upper Ganges Canal in the north to the Soundane Cut in the 
west, each canal plays a unique role in shaping the nation's development. 
Understanding their significance and appreciating their engineering marvels is key 
to unlocking the full potential of India's waterways. So dive in, explore, and 
discover the wonders of these important canals that form the backbone of India's 
progress.