The main objective of the Farakka Barrage Project was to divert an adequate quantity of Ganga waters to Bhagirathi-Hooghly river system through a 38.38 km long feeder canal for preservation and maintenance. The increased upland supply from Ganga at Farakka into Bhagirathi reduced salinity and ensured potable water supply to Kolkata and surrounding areas. For Dhuliyan, the project involved protection works against bank erosion along right bank of river Ganga.