HYDERABAD: The under-construction Nai Gaj dam is expected to become fully operational within next three years and irrigate agricultural lands in the area, according to Hyderabad divisional commissioner Bilal Ahmed Memon.

Mr Memon said at a meeting on the dam he chaired at his office in Shahbaz Building on Monday that the purpose of Nai Gaj dam was not only to enhance agriculture but to contribute to economic progress, infrastructural development and efficient utilisation of natural resources in the region.

The dam’s project director, Chief Engineer Khalid Memon, briefed the meeting on the project’s progress and noted that a total of 295 acres of private of privately-owned land fell within the project area and its acquisition required budgetary approval.

The commissioner assured that land survey had been completed and compensation would be awarded and disbursed soon among respective landowners. The area had a sparse local population, therefore, the acquired land would be placed under the supervision of irrigation department, he said. He stressed the land acquisition and resettlement processes should be carried out transparently and that the residents whose houses or properties fell within the project’s boundaries should be provided with modern alternative housing.

Published in Dawn, May 6th, 2025