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.
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