Surat: The long-awaited multipurpose barrage project on the Tapi River in Surat has now been included in the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana – Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (PMKSY-AIBP) by the Central Government.

The decision was finalized during a meeting of the Screening Committee and Delegated Investment Board of the Water Resources Department held this week in national capital.

Under this scheme, the Central Government has approved a grant of ₹584.06 crore, while the State Government will contribute ₹389.38 crore for the project. This inclusion is expected to significantly accelerate the pace of construction and ensure timely completion.

Officials said that once completed, the barrage will help raise the groundwater table across Surat, benefiting areas currently facing depleting water levels or marsh formation.

The barrage will create a 10 km-long lake stretching from Rudh to Singanpore Weir.

It will have a storage capacity of 18.735 MCM of fresh water in this lake, paving the way for water sports and recreational activities.

Around 10.52 lakh cusecs of water will be stored, substantially improving groundwater recharge.

The structure will also enhance flood protection for the city.

New road connectivity will be developed from Dhundh to Gaurav Path in Sidhi Pal, improving intra-city transport and tourism potential. DeshGujarat