Modern canals are critical infrastructure for national water security, basin resource optimization, and ecological protection. In the multifaceted context of the “Dual Carbon” Goals, rural revitalization strategy, regional coordinated development strategy, and digital transformation, traditional canal construction and operation modes are no longer sufficient to meet the diverse demands of the new era. It is essential to build a modern integrated canal system centered on intelligent construction and digital operation. This paper reviews the functional requirements and technological progress of modern canals, systematically examines the evolution of canal construction and operation management, and elaborates on the development concepts and scientific principles of intelligent construction and digital operation. It proposes that modern canal engineering must transition from traditional experience-based methods to digital, intelligent, and ecological approaches. Through an in-depth discussion of the key issues, development recommendations, and priority tasks related to intelligent construction and digital operation technology, the paper clarifies the direction for progress. Core breakthroughs include the adoption of multi-source digital twin technology, the design and integrated optimization of intelligent inspection equipment, the predictive maintenance theory for modern canal engineering, and the theory of collaborative development of intelligent construction and digital operation. These advances aim to promote high-quality development in the canal sector, forming a modern canal technology and management framework that meets national strategic and sustainable development needs.