Key Takeaways
- Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif approved the construction of 800 additional mini dams.
- The new mini dams are expected to create storage capacity for 32,000 acre-feet of rainwater.
- The project is part of a broader water conservation strategy in the Potohar region.
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has given her approval for the construction of an additional 800 mini dams in the Potohar region, as part of a comprehensive water conservation strategy. The decision was made during a meeting on the Transformation of Agriculture and Water Management, where the chief minister emphasized the importance of rainwater storage to safeguard future generations.
The new mini dams are expected to significantly enhance water storage capacity, with an estimated 32,000 acre-feet of rainwater being stored. This initiative is aimed at addressing water scarcity issues in the region and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
During the meeting, it was highlighted that 110 mini dams have already been completed under the chief minister’s vision. The project also involves deploying dedicated human resource staff for water conservation and efficient monitoring to ensure the effective implementation of the strategy.
The agriculture, irrigation, housing, and local government departments were directed to work in coordination to promote water conservation. Additionally, 1,000 new laser land levellers would be provided to farmers on a 50 percent subsidy during the current financial year, further supporting agricultural productivity.
The meeting also reviewed progress on water conservation and groundwater management strategies. It was noted that a comprehensive strategy has been prepared to curb water losses of 30 percent during conveyance and 25 percent during usage across Punjab. Lining of 2,600 watercourses spanning 7,000 kilometres had already been completed, resulting in 20 percent water savings.
Over the next three years, another 4,500 watercourses covering 11,500 kilometres would be rehabilitated and lined. The high-efficiency irrigation system has saved 18,000 acre-feet of water while increasing crop yields by 50 percent. Plans are in place to bring an additional 30,000 acres under modern drip and sprinkler irrigation systems over the next three years.
According to the briefing, 100 recharge wells are operational in the Gujranwala, Gujrat, and Lahore divisions, while another 300 are nearing completion. These initiatives aim to improve water availability and management across the province.
