The Punjab government has approved 800 new mini dams across Potohar’s rain-fed areas. The project will be completed over the next three years.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif approved the initiative during a high-level meeting. The session focused on agricultural transformation and water management strategies.
Officials said the new dams will provide a combined storage capacity of 32,000 acre-feet. They also confirmed that 110 mini dams have already been completed.
Government Expands Water Conservation Projects
During the meeting, officials presented photographic evidence of completed dam projects. They also briefed the chief minister on progress in Attock, Talagang, Gujar Khan, and Rawalpindi.
Maryam Nawaz directed authorities to prioritise secure and modern water storage facilities. She also sought a comprehensive plan for future rainwater conservation efforts.
“A wise nation is one that protects every single drop of water,” she stated. The chief minister reviewed reports on groundwater management and water conservation.
Furthermore, the meeting approved measures to strengthen groundwater management laws. Authorities will also appoint specialised staff for monitoring and conservation activities.
The agriculture, irrigation, housing, and local government departments will jointly implement a water-saving strategy. Officials expect coordinated efforts to improve resource management across Punjab.
Farmers to Receive Subsidies and Improved Infrastructure
The provincial government will provide 1,000 laser land levellers at a 50 percent subsidy. The initiative aims to improve water efficiency in agriculture.
Officials reported that 2,600 watercourses spanning 7,000 kilometres have been lined. Consequently, the upgrades have helped save nearly 20 percent of water.
Over the next three years, another 4,500 watercourses will undergo improvements. These projects will cover approximately 11,500 kilometres across Punjab.
Meanwhile, 100 recharge wells operate in Lahore, Gujranwala, and Gujrat divisions. Work on another 300 wells is nearing completion.
