Punjab Launches Phase Two of Construction of 150 Dams

The Punjab Agriculture Department has commenced the second phase of a project aimed at constructing 150 mini dams in the rain-fed Potohar region, according to Wire material <source b9add97d-f4d>. This initiative is part of a three-year Agriculture Transformation Plan and offers a 70 percent subsidy to encourage year-round irrigation, horticulture, and fish farming.

In the first phase, 111 mini dams were successfully completed in the previous fiscal year. The second phase targets the completion of 150 mini dams in the Rawalpindi division by June 30, 2027. The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has allocated billions of rupees for this project. Rainwater will be stored in these mini dams and utilized for irrigation purposes.

The primary objectives of this initiative are to prevent soil erosion, reduce damage caused by floods, ensure a consistent water supply for cultivable land throughout the year, and improve groundwater levels. Additionally, it is expected to promote profitable activities such as horticulture and dairy farming. Farmers Afzal Ali and Faizan expressed their support for the project, stating that it would provide a stable water supply for crops and orchards, allow for fish farming, and potentially attract aquatic birds due to the presence of water bodies.