The Planning Commission of India has approved Central funding to the tune of Rs 7,000 crore for building canal network in the command area of Narmada project in Gujarat.

Last week, the Commission approved the revised cost estimation of Sardar Sarovar Project after examining the details of the cost benefit of the ambitious project, which is described as the lifeline of Gujarat.

"After examining the details submitted by us, the Planning Commission has approved the revised estimation, which will help us in accessing funds to the tune of Rs 7,000 crore for building canals across the state," a senior official of Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (SSNNL) said.

Under the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP), a Central government scheme, funds will be provided to create irrigation facilities in drought prone areas in the country, he added.

According to SSNNL officials, availability of funds from the Centre will help to expedite the canal works. So far, less than 30 per cent of canals have been built, while remaining have not started or are under construction.

"Since funds will not be a problem now, we will be able to acquire the required lands for constructing canals in the command area," the official said, adding that around 41,000 hectare land will be required to complete the canal network, involving branch canals, minor canals, sub-minor canals and distributaries which will take the water to the fields from the main canal.

The SSNNL will now acquire the required lands at market price from farmers, who were not willing to provide their lands earlier because of 'faulty acquisition' procedure, the official said.