Bhakra’s Legacy: A Childhood Etched in Canal Waters

The name Bhakra-Nangal evokes images of colossal dams and a sprawling network of irrigation canals. For me, it conjures a very different picture.

I spent two decades in Naya Nangal, a town deeply intertwined with the project’s history. My father, an electrician with National Fertilizers Limited, shaped my childhood within its embrace.

The town, with its unique character, holds a special place in my heart. Among my most cherished memories are the clandestine joyrides on the canals, a mischievous adventure of youth.

These experiences, etched in the heart of Bhakra’s legacy, highlight the human stories woven into the fabric of this monumental engineering marvel. The project’s impact extends far beyond its technical achievements, shaping lives and communities for generations. Understanding this human element is crucial to appreciating Bhakra-Nangal’s true significance for India’s agricultural and industrial progress.