Mobile soil labs launched in flood-hit areas

Agricultural productivity of land in South Punjab to be analysed

The provincial government, in collaboration with the Soil Fertility Department, has launched a Mobile Soil Testing Lab project to assess and restore the fertility of agricultural land across South Punjab.

Soil fertility specialist Fatima Bibi said that in the first phase, seven mobile labs are being launched, which will be followed by eight more in the second phase, covering 15 remote districts.

The labs will collect soil and water samples to determine fertility levels and guide farmers on improving productivity.

She said the recent floods had severely damaged the fertility of agricultural land in Punjab, as stagnant water had affected clay-rich soils by reducing aeration and causing root decay.

In contrast, sandy soil benefited from better water absorption, she added.

Fatima Bibi explained that the mobile labs would especially assist farmers in remote areas who find it difficult to visit testing centres. "The initiative aims to provide on-site soil and water analysis so that farmers can receive accurate guidance to enhance crop yields," she stated.

She highlighted that areas such as Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Alipur, and Shujabad will benefit from the project.

In Khanewal district, soil samples show high salinity and sodium content, which hinder plant nutrient absorption, while the water is also brackish, leading to lower yields, she said.

According to her, 95 per cent of samples from Khanewal showed phosphorus deficiency, while 33% lacked potassium and iron.

Around 50% of land in Multan division had excessive salt content between 21% and 30%. Fatima Bibi said that after soil testing, the department issues reports suggesting remedial measures to improve fertility.

She added that farmers are also educated through seminars, radio and television shows, urging them to test their soil and water at least once a year for better crop outcomes.