Punjab Government Issues Preliminary Notification for Land Acquisition in Ferozepur new Malwa Canal and Augmentation Channel. Chandigarh, September 10, 2025 – The Punjab Government’s Water Resources Department has released a preliminary notification under Section 11 of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. The notification outlines the acquisition of land in Ferozepur district for the construction of the new Malwa Canal and Augmentation Channel.The land, located in the South West part of Punjab near the Rajasthan Feeder Canal, is intended to irrigate the South West part of Punjab under Tehsil Zira, Ferozepur, including areas like Muktsar and Giddarbaha. The project, known as the Zira LAC-cum-SDM Ferozepur Canal Project, aims to enhance water resources and support agricultural development. The notification specifies that approximately 47 to 59 hectares of land across villages such as Mustil No. 47, 50, and 59 in Mauja RH (56) will be acquired.The acquisition is driven by the Water Resources Department of Punjab, with the construction of the new canal and augmentation channel cited as the public purpose. A Social Impact Assessment (SIA) report, prepared by an Expert Group and approved by the SIA committee, has been conducted to evaluate the impact on affected persons. The report, dated June 16, 2025, and issued on July 1, 2025, includes recommendations for rehabilitation and resettlement.The notification provides details of the administrators, including the Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) of Ferozepur and the Divisional Commissioner of Ferozepur, who will oversee the rehabilitation and resettlement processes. Affected landowners have 30 days from the publication date to raise objections, with the process set to conclude within 60 days from the issuance of the final declaration.This project marks a significant step toward improving irrigation infrastructure in the region, though it has sparked discussions among local communities regarding its impact on land and livelihoods. Further updates will be provided as the acquisition process progresses.