LAHORE, Nov 23: The Punjab Irrigation Department on Tuesday finalized canal closure plan for Rabi season. According to the plan, Lower Jhelum Canal will remain closed from Dec 26 to Jan 12 , Lower Bari Doab from Dec 29 to Jan 5, Baloki-Sulemanki Link Canal from Dec 29 to Jan 15, Upper Pakpattan Canal from Dec 30 to Jan 16 and Eastern Sadiqia Canal from Dec 30 to Jan 16.

Similarly, the Upper Jhelum Canal from Jan 12 to 29, Lower Chenab Canal (except Jhang Branch) from Jan 11 to Feb 10 and Jhang Branch from Dec 27 to Jan 13.

Upper Bahawal Canal from Jan 13 to 30, Upper Chenab Canal from Dec 26 to Jan 12, Central Bari Doab Canal from Dec 27 to Jan 13, Thal Canal Jan 13 to 30, Trimmu Canal from Jan 10 to 27, Trimmu Sidhnai Link Canal from Jan 10 to 27, Sidhnai Canal from January 11 to 28, SMB Link Canal from January 11 to 28, Lower Pakpattan Canal from Jan 12 to 29, Lower Bahawal Canal from Jan 13 to 30, Panjnad Canal from Jan 14 to 31 and Taunsa from Dec 31 to Jan 17.

According to the department, the guiding principle for the canal closure plan is requirement of different regions during the Rabi season. The plan has been chalked out on the instructions of chief minister for maximum wheat yield with limited available water, he said.