New irrigation

The Pind Dadan Khan-Khushab area is set to receive a new irrigation system spread over 68,000 hectares to revive the crops that once grew there. Climatic changes led to inconsistent precipitation patterns resulting in major loss of crops. The project, funded by the Asian Development Bank, will source water from the Jhelum River. This is a welcome development, particularly considering the following statistics. Of course, first and foremost, it is a game of economics. As per the Pakistan Economic Survey, Punjab produces over 80 per cent of the country’s agricultural output, which comprises 20 per cent of the country’s GDP. From an alternative point of view, agriculture employs 42 per cent of the country’s labour force, meaning it is the livelihood of approximately four out of every 10 people. Therefore, it should prove to be a prudent decision down the road.

While the livelihoods of farmers living on meagre means is looked after, along with the country’s GDP outputs of wheat, rice, corn, sugarcane, and especially cotton, the repercussions of the project need to also be tended. Officials aver that for the construction of primary and secondary canals to divert water from the Jhelum River, residents will have to be relocated along with 128 edifices. This should be done tactfully. Thus far, there are plans to employ eminent domain, purchasing the land to be used from the people. Farmers seem to be in agreement as there has not been any protest recorded against this, but it must be ensured that just compensation is provided.

Advanced technologies are scarce in Pakistan and this irrigation project loan by the ADB is a step in the right direction, so long as what the farmers are promised is delivered. The imparting of skills and knowledge should all be with the aim of supporting farmers, whose work is crucial to the GDP of the country, in becoming self-sufficient.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 27^th, 2017.

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