UPITS-2026: UP Puts Technology at the Core of Smart Irrigation and Water Governance
SCADA, AI and IoT-based systems showcase technology-led irrigation, flood control and sustainable water management
Uttar Pradesh is using the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS) 2026 to showcase a technology-driven approach to irrigation, water management and flood control. The Irrigation and Water Resources Department has established its pavilion in Hall No. 6 at India Expo Center and Mart, highlighting engineering innovations and major projects undertaken over the past decade.
The pavilion features live models of the Bansagar Canal, Pahari Dam, Arjun Sahayak Canal and Saryu Canal National projects, along with audio-visual demonstrations of dams, barrages, canal networks and lift irrigation systems.
According to the department, 17.29 lakh hectares of new irrigation area has been developed and 2.19 lakh hectares restored, taking the total expanded or restored area to 19.48 lakh hectares and benefiting 44.81 lakh farmer families.
SCADA and AI Drive Irrigation Modernisation
The department’s smart irrigation system integrates SCADA, Artificial Intelligence and IoT for water distribution, canal operations and government tubewell management. SCADA has been installed at 15 major dams and barrages, enabling electronic gate operations and real-time monitoring through centralised control systems.
Technology-Based Flood Management
The exhibition also highlights flood-control interventions, including embankment strengthening, concrete mattress technology, silt vanes, sheet piles, permeable structures and tetrapods. Floodplain zoning has been completed for 11 rivers, while dredging at 58 locations has been undertaken to improve river flow and reduce pressure on embankments.
Water Efficiency and Solar Irrigation
Pressure and sprinkler irrigation projects are being promoted in water-stressed regions, while the department is integrating solar energy into tubewells, lift canals, irrigation systems, sensors and canal infrastructure.
The department has also expanded canal desilting from 27,551 km to 55,320 km. The irrigated area has increased from 82.54 lakh hectares to 106.82 lakh hectares, reflecting a wider push towards technology-enabled, resource-efficient and farmer-focused water governance.
