The Command Area Development Project associated with the Jalalpur Irrigation Canal is set to revolutionize agriculture and improve livelihoods in the Jhelum and Khushab districts. According to officials speaking during a visit by an Asian Development Bank (ADB) delegation on Wednesday, the initiative will bring more land under cultivation and promote efficient irrigation practices.
Project Details and Goals
Speaking on the occasion, Director General Agriculture (Irrigation Reform) Punjab Rana Tajammul Hussain stated that the project aims to strengthen the rural economy by expanding irrigation infrastructure and encouraging the adoption of modern farming techniques. Among the key interventions, nearly 30,000 acres of farmland are being levelled with laser technology to improve water distribution and crop yields. The scheme also includes the construction of 485 watercourses and the installation of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems on approximately 2,000 acres.
To enhance water management, 485 water user associations have been established to oversee the equitable distribution of irrigation supplies among growers. Additionally, 30,000 farmers will receive hands-on training in modern agricultural practices, while 212 farmers have already been provided with agricultural machinery and equipment under the project.
Expected Impact on Crop Production
Mr. Hussain added that the initiative is expected to increase the output of major crops, including wheat, maize, rice, vegetables, and fodder, by 20 to 30 per cent after completion. This boost in productivity is anticipated to significantly improve the economic conditions of farming communities in the region.
ADB Support and Water Savings
ADB Director Dr. Bilal Iftikhar noted that the bank is extending support to Pakistan’s agriculture sector by helping improve irrigation facilities and introducing water-efficient farming methods. He emphasized that the project aims to deliver irrigation water directly to farms, reclaim barren land, and encourage sustainable agriculture. The modern irrigation systems being introduced are expected to save nearly 30 per cent of water while improving agricultural productivity across the two districts.
Officials Present During the Visit
Among those present during the visit were Director Irrigation Reform Rawalpindi Division Farhana Jamil, Deputy Director Irrigation Reform Jhelum Ayaz Butt, Assistant Director Irrigation Reform Pind Dadan Khan Adnan Asghar, Assistant Director Irrigation Reform Muhammad Zahid Khan, and Deputy Director Agriculture Information Punjab Haroon Ahmed Khan.
