World Bank Backs Haryana's Mega Water Project: ₹4,000 Crore Loan Boosts Jal Sanrakshit Initiative

World Bank Backs Haryana's Mega Water Project: ₹4,000 Crore Loan Boosts Jal Sanrakshit Initiative​

Haryana is set to achieve significant strides toward water self-reliance with the approval of a major loan from the World Bank. The financial backing for the state's ambitious 'Jal Sanrakshit Haryana' project has been secured, promising a transformational overhaul of the irrigation and water management infrastructure across the state.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced that the World Bank has approved a loan amounting to ₹4,000 crore for this initiative on Saturday. The total cost estimated for the comprehensive project is ₹5,714 crore, with implementation scheduled over several phases between 2026 and 2032.

Scope and Implementation of Water Conservation Project​

The 'Jal Sanrakshit Haryana' programme has massive geographic scope, covering 15 defined clusters across a vast area of 48.94 lakh acres within the state. The project mandates a holistic approach to water management, emphasizing the careful use of every drop and conservation efforts at all levels.

Saini stressed that effective implementation must reach the grassroots level, directing departments to prepare comprehensive water management plans. A key focus of the initiative is developing a robust digital system designed for monitoring both water availability and current usage patterns across Haryana.

Revitalization of Canal Infrastructure Under the Programme​

A crucial component of the project involves the rehabilitation of existing agricultural water infrastructure. The programme aims to rehabilitate a total of 620 water channels, which will benefit approximately 3.18 lakh acres of cultivated land.

The restoration effort involves three types of canal works. World Bank assistance is slated for 106 canals at a cost of ₹2,484.87 crore. Additionally, 293 canals will be restored through state funding, valued at ₹2,230 crore, while the remaining 279 canals are part of NABARD-supported projects.

Enhancing Agricultural Productivity and Land Reclamation​

Beyond canal restoration, the project includes several targeted measures to boost agricultural output and land health. Approximately two lakh acres of waterlogged land will be reclaimed as part of this initiative.

Promoting sustainable farming is another focus area; the programme supports direct seeded rice (DSR) across five lakh acres. Furthermore, crop diversification efforts are planned over approximately 1.12 lakh acres, ensuring a balanced and robust agricultural ecosystem for the region.

Focus on Groundwater Recharge and Water Reuse​

Strengthening groundwater resources is paramount to the project's long-term success. To achieve this, 147 water bodies will be developed in seven specific districts, including Bhiwani, Jind, Kaithal, Mahendragarh, Rewari, Charkhi Dadri, and Sirsa.

Treated wastewater from major sewage treatment plants, particularly those located in Jind, Kaithal, and Dhanwapur in Gurugram, will be specifically reused for irrigation purposes. This vital initiative is estimated to cover nearly 28,000 acres at an estimated cost of ₹282.13 crore.

Grassroots Involvement and Future Outlook​

To ensure complete community involvement and project sustainability, the Chief Minister announced the formation of village-level water committees. These committees will be actively engaged in both the development and the long-term maintenance of local water channels.

A dedicated fund will also be established by the state government to provide financial support for the upkeep and management of these vital infrastructure elements. Saini concluded that the World Bank recognized the significance of this initiative, calling it a transformational step for Haryana's resource management.