Said corporation may, in the exercise of its discretion, erect along the line of its canal or over different portions of its property, such railroads as may be necessary for connecting manufacturing establishments situated upon or connected with their premises or enjoying water privileges from them with any line of railroad or any harbor near them, and such telegraph lines or telephonic lines as may be reasonably necessary or convenient in connection therewith. Said corporation may purchase and hold such tracts of land along the line of its canal and water courses, as may reasonably be necessary or convenient for the conveying of water, storing it and dispensing and dividing it among those who wish to purchase or lease it for any of the purposes mentioned in this act, or for the purpose of erecting manufactories or mills upon.