Tunnel farming: Pakistan slow to adopt technology

Technique can increase crop production, farmer income.

FAISALABAD:

Pakistan is lagging far behind in adopting tunnel farming technology which can substantially increase production of high-value agricultural crops and boost incomes of farmers, says University of Agriculture Faisalabad Vice Chancellor Dr Iqrar Ahmad.

Talking to a delegation, headed by College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan President Dr Zafarullah, the vice chancellor said tunnel farming required a certain temperature in the tunnel for growing vegetables cultivated in different seasons. “This technique is also helpful in the development of floriculture, which has vast scope for exports,” he said.

Though Pakistan does have some features of a tropical climate the lack of a value chain and marketing are the main hurdles in agriculture. According to estimates, the country loses 20 to 40 per cent of its crop yield in post-harvest handling.

Dr Zafarullah saw a good scope for tunnel farming, which could bring revenues, raise the standard of living of farmers and reduce poverty.

However, he said common farmers were unaware of modern agricultural practices which increased productivity manifold.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 9^th, 2012.