GHALLANAI (Mohmand Agency), Feb 28: NWFP Governor Syed Iftikhar Hussain Shah inaugurated a small dam constructed at a cost of Rs23.2 million in Pindiali on Saturday.

Having a storage capacity of 550 acre feet, the dam is estimated to irrigate around 230 acres barren land.

The governor was informed that the dam was a multi-purpose project; it would not only provide water for irrigation, but would also raise watertable to ease the drinking water problem in the area.

Later, the governor told elders of the locality that a realistic approach had been adopted for socio-economic development of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas.

"We have chalked out a programme to promote agriculture by raising irrigation facilities for which, initially, 12 small dams have been planned," he said.

He said prospects of agriculture development in Fata were high and the government would ensure provision of all facilities to growers.

The governor also attended the passing-out ceremony of the first contingent of Khasadar Force, which had been imparted training as law enforcers by the Kurram Militia. The contingent comprised 70 personnel who underwent the 10-week training at Ghallanai, the agency headquarters.

Speaking as the chief guest on the occasion, the governor said a three-year plan to reorganize the Khasadar Force in Fata had been initiated which, on completion, would provide a trained force to the political administration to effectively maintain the law and order.