The Ganga Canal will be closed until November 8 for essential maintenance, desilting, and redevelopment of ghats. This closure is expected to disrupt irrigation water supply across 15 districts in Uttar Pradesh, as well as Haridwar in Uttarakhand, and seven districts within the National Capital Region (NCR). The canal’s closure is a routine procedure aimed at ensuring the infrastructure remains functional and effective.

According to Bharat Bhushan, the sub-divisional officer of the UP irrigation department, the closure was initiated at midnight on Tuesday and will last until midnight on Deepawali. The maintenance work is crucial for the canal’s long-term operation, and all relevant stakeholders were notified in advance about the schedule.

The Ganga Canal, which was constructed in 1854, spans approximately 560 km and serves as a vital source of potable and irrigation water, reaching areas as far as Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh. Although it originates in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, the management of the canal remains under the jurisdiction of the UP Irrigation Department due to ongoing disputes regarding asset-sharing agreements following the formation of Uttarakhand.

Impact on Drinking Water Supply

The closure of the Ganga Canal is also anticipated to affect drinking water supply in parts of the NCR. Water from the canal is channelled to the Pratap Vihar treatment plant located in Ghaziabad, which distributes drinking water to various regions within the NCR. As a result, residents may experience interruptions in their water supply during this maintenance period.

In light of the situation, Nitin Gautam, president of the Ganga Sabha, has called on authorities to ensure that a minimum water flow is maintained at Brahmakund at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar. This is particularly important for pilgrims and local residents who rely on the water for their daily rituals and practices.

Senior officials from the UP Irrigation Department have stated that field officers in Uttarakhand have been directed to monitor and maintain adequate water levels at Har Ki Pauri throughout the duration of the canal’s closure. However, images circulating on social media showing Har Ki Pauri devoid of water have raised concerns among the public.

Community Reactions and Concerns

The community has expressed apprehension regarding the potential impact of the canal’s closure on both irrigation and drinking water supplies. Farmers in the affected districts are particularly worried about the implications for their crops, as timely access to irrigation water is crucial for agricultural productivity.

In addition to agricultural concerns, residents in the NCR are anxious about the availability of drinking water, especially in light of the ongoing demands on water resources. The authorities have been urged to communicate clearly about the expected duration of the disruptions and any measures being taken to mitigate the impact on local communities.

As the maintenance work progresses, stakeholders are hopeful that the necessary repairs and enhancements will be completed on schedule, allowing for the resumption of normal water supply operations. The Ganga Canal remains a critical resource for millions, and its effective management is essential for both irrigation and drinking water needs in the region.

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