Lahore and Its Historical Canal System

Lahore is known for its historical and modern canal system, which plays a significant role in its infrastructure and urban planning. The city features several canals, both historical and contemporary. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Ravi Canal: 

This is one of the oldest and most significant canals associated with Lahore. It was originally constructed in the 19th century to divert water from the Ravi River for irrigation and to provide water to the city. However, it has largely fallen out of use and is not actively maintained.

2. Gulshan-e-Iqbal Canal:

This canal, also known as the Gulshan Canal, was constructed in the mid-20th century and serves various purposes including irrigation and drainage.

3. Lahore Canal:

This is the most prominent and well-known canal in Lahore. Originally constructed in the 1860s, it was designed to provide irrigation and manage floodwaters. It runs through the city for about 11 miles (18 kilometers) and is a notable feature of Lahore's landscape, with well-maintained green belts and walking paths along its banks.

4. Saddar Canal:

This canal is part of Lahore’s broader canal network and is used for irrigation purposes.

5. Shalimar Canal:

It is associated with the Shalimar Gardens and historically served the gardens' water needs. Today, it is a significant part of the city's heritage.

The exact number of canals in Lahore can vary depending on whether one considers both historical and modern ones and their current state of use. However, key modern canals include:

- Lahore Canal

- Gulshan-e-Iqbal Canal

- Saddar Canal

- Shalimar Canal

In summary, Lahore has several prominent canals, with the Lahore Canal being the most central and well-known. While the number of functional and historically significant canals might differ, these key canals illustrate the importance of the canal system in Lahore's history and urban development.