Lower Bari Canal (Punjab)

31st March 2017

 

About Head Balloki

Head Balloki is situated at the distance of 64 km from Lahore in Bhai Pheru on the Ravi River. Traveling from Lahore on G. T. Road, a turn right on Bhai-Pheru-Head Balloki Road from Phoolnagar, will leads toward Head Balloki. It is an important barrage on River Ravi and it was the part of the Triple Canal Project in British regime in 1915.

Two canals, Sulemanki Link Canal and Lower Bari Canal, are generated from this head. The main purpose of this barrage was to feed Lower Bari Doab canal. After the Indus Water Treaty between Pakistan and India, the water of River Ravi was under the control of India. Therefore, Upper Chenab link canal was constructed to fill the water in the River Ravi from the Chenab River.

Head Balloki was the biggest barrage in the British India. It had 1,647 feet long weir, including broad steel gates to control water level in the River Ravi. The Balloki Power Plant was also constructed in 2017 to fulfill the power needs for the country.

Head Balloki plays a major role in agriculture sector. It can store nearly 6,900 Cusecs water and provides water to surrounding areas of Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Sahiwal, Vehari, and Khanewal.

Head Balloki is good place for one-day trip and picnic point, especially in spring or winter season. It is also a good spot for fishing in the winter season as well. There are a number of fish shops, where you can enjoy the freshness of the River Ravi fish. On the canal side, you can easily enjoy the fishing hobby by using fishing rods, if you have valid fishing license. A day fishing license will also available on the spot.

Another important attraction near the Head Balloki is the boating in the River Ravi. Just before the head site, there are rows of boats of different colors. It will be a wonderful experience to enjoy boating in a pleasant day.

Just after crossing the Head Balloki bridge, there is Rana Safari Park and Resort on the bank of the River Ravi. It is a good place for family entertainment with various activities. It is basically a wildlife sanctuary with an area of 214 acres including bamboo forest that is the uniqueness of the Rana Safari Park. It is place for peacocks and deer in their natural environment. There is also a small zoo which is a home of different kinds of birds as well as ostriches. Family can also enjoy different fun activities there as well as safari tour in the shades of bamboo forest. All the treks are fully covered with long bamboo trees on the both sides, which gives luxurious scenic view. There is also facility for badminton, tennis, football, and other games. Hunting facility is also available with some valid permit. There is a fee for entry in Rana Resort except disabled person, senior citizens, and teachers.

Greenfields Country Club is another location for full day activities for family near the Head Balloki. It offers various indoor and outdoor activities such as horse riding, swimming, boating, swimming, snooker, board games, etc. It also has per head fee for full day indoor and outdoor activities including lunch and tea.