ISLAMABAD: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has proposed a strategy to the Balochistan government for tapping shallow groundwater emanating from perennial streams of the river basins of Zhob and Mula, using solar-powered systems in off-grid locations.

It was also suggested that small scale solar-powered pumping systems coupled with drip irrigation could be a suitable option in terms of sustainability.

The proposed approach for the efficient use of water was introduced by a mission of the Asian Development Bank to the Balochistan government, and it was agreed that the plan would be implemented in the proposed water resources development project in 2018.

A study for the proposed Balochistan Water Resou­rces Development Project (BWRDP) established that conventional irrigation systems cannot address the issue of low water availability, and innovative solutions to improve productivity by maximising crop produced per unit of water are to be developed and demonstrated for resource-poor farmers.

The project for which ADB will provide $100 million aims to increase farm income through improved land and water resources by construction and rehabilitation of canals, and sub-surface water channels in river basins of Zhob and Mula where water is extreme scarce.

The project will combine a cost-effective solar pumping system for use of shallow groundwater, and innovative drip irrigation for high-value fruits and vegetables, and enhancing farm income through value chain development.

Published in Dawn, May 31st, 2017