Sunil Chadha
Una: Even as the upcoming Bulk Drug Park promises to position Himachal Pradesh as a major player in pharmaceutical manufacturing, it is also set to deliver a significant benefit to the local farming community: a modern irrigation network that will directly support agriculture in the Haroli area of Una district.
Alongside the park’s development, the state government is laying the groundwork for large-scale irrigation infrastructure that will channel treated and stored water not only for industrial use but also for agricultural needs. Farmers across Una district, particularly in Haroli, stand to gain from this dual-purpose water supply system designed to improve farm productivity in a traditionally rain-fed region.
Rs 170.46 crore water supply, conservation project
To meet the park’s water demands and extend benefits to nearby communities, a Rs 170.46 crore water supply and conservation project is underway. Multiple water bodies and irrigation channels are being planned, ensuring that while the park receives a steady 50 million litres per day (MLD) of water, nearby farms are not left behind.
In addition to surface water solutions, the Jal Shakti Department has begun work on a three-phase groundwater augmentation project. The first phase includes the installation of 15 tubewells that will supply 15 MLD of water, stored in two high-capacity reservoirs currently under construction.
The Government of India has sanctioned Rs 140 crore for groundwater-based infrastructure to support the park and surrounding areas.
Flood control, drinking water projects also in pipeline
To further improve water security in Haroli and its surroundings, a comprehensive Rs 215 crore package of water-related projects has been rolled out. These include 22 irrigation schemes worth Rs 51 crore, 11 drinking water projects valued at Rs 134 crore and flood control initiatives totalling Rs 25 crore.
State Industries Secretary RD Nazeem recently led discussions with NITI Aayog, emphasising that the Bulk Drug Park is not just an industrial milestone but a model for integrated development, balancing economic growth with environmental and agricultural sustainability.
“The success of this project will be measured not only by its pharmaceutical output but by how it transforms local livelihoods through sustainable water management,” said a senior official involved in project planning.
With initial funds already transferred to the Jal Shakti Department and execution in progress, the Bulk Drug Park is set to become a symbol of inclusive growth, empowering industry, environment and agriculture alike.
