Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government has planned to boost tourism in the state even more. To boost tourism, the Punjab Government has come up with the idea of introducing boating in various canals of Punjab. It has been witnessed that every year tourists head to Srinagar and enjoy boating in Dal Lake. In order to give that enjoyment to people in Punjab, the state government is planning to introduce boating in six major canals.
As per reports, Punjab's tourism and water resources departments have selected five districts—Roopnagar, Hoshiarpur, Ferozepur, Amritsar, and Fazilka—for the launch of this project. These districts have been chosen due to the presence of large canals suitable for boating activities. Some of the major canals identified include the Sirhind Canal, Upper Bari Doab Canal, and Bist Doab Canal.
Currently, the identification of canals for boating is in progress. Once finalised, tenders will be issued for setting up boating facilities, and boats will be procured to attract tourists.
It is pertinent to mention here that the canals selected for tourism are also important for irrigation in Punjab. The Upper Bari Doab Canal originates from the Ravi River at Madhopur and provides irrigation to over 3 lakh hectares of farmland in Muktsar and Faridkot. The Nangal Canal originates from the Sutlej River and irrigates over 7 lakh hectares of land across Punjab and Rajasthan. The Bist Doab Canal also plays a crucial role in supplying water to agricultural regions.
It is pertinent to mention here that in 2024, Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann revealed plans to introduce jet skiing, motor paragliding, and hot air ballooning at Chamrod Port to boost the tourism industry. After conducting trial runs for these activities, CM Mann conveyed his enthusiasm, highlighting that water-based recreational options such as speed boating are already well-received at this scenic destination.