Mobile soil, water testing lab launched

The Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture Multan (MNSUAM) launched a state-of-the-art mobile soil and water testing laboratory on Thursday.

The facility was inaugurated by Vice Chancellor Dr Ishtiaq Ahmad Rajwana who highlighted the importance of modern testing tools in boosting agricultural productivity and enabling data-driven decision-making at the grassroots level.

The mobile laboratory is set to serve remote farming communities across Bahawalpur, Multan and Dera Ghazi Khan divisions.

It will conduct on-site soil and water testing by organizing Farmers' Days for offering free analysis reports to help growers optimise fertiliser and water usage to improve yield and reduce resource wastage.

The launch event was attended by senior academics and industry professionals, including the President of the Soil Science Society of Pakistan, Dr Azeem Khalid, University of Agriculture Faisalabad Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialisation Director Dr Zaheer Ahmad and faculty members.

The MNSUAM Agricultural Engineering Department has also manufactured a low-cost mini-tractor powered by a 200cc locally-assembled petrol engine

The project, implemented in collaboration with the Agricultural Mechanisation Research Institute (AMRI) and financially supported by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), aims to provide an affordable, locally viable solution for small-scale farmers.

The tractor's notable features include low production cost and ease of maintenance, with all parts available in the local market. The engine is based on the technology commonly used in motorcycles and rickshaws, making it repairable at any small workshop.

The mini-tractor has been tested with various seed drill machines and future developments will focus on integrating it with other agricultural implements to enhance its utility.

Field trials revealed that the tractor consumes 0.99 litre of fuel per hour. The compact design makes it ideal for use in orchards and narrow farming spaces where conventional tractors cannot operate efficiently.