Water released for rice crop in Bannu aids agricultural boost
Published on: June 30, 2024.
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LAKKI MARWAT: Urgent Action Taken to Address Water Scarcity for Rice Cultivation in Bannu District
In response to alarming reports of water scarcity for rice crop cultivation in Bannu district, Divisional Commissioner Parweiz Sabatkhel has taken immediate action by instructing the relevant authorities to release water in the canals without delay. The aim is to ensure that growers can sow the paddy without any further delay.
This directive was issued during a meeting held at the commissioner’s office on Friday. Among those present were Deputy Commissioner Shah Saud and Superintending Engineer Irrigation Samiullah Kundi.
Expressing concern over the unavailability of water for sowing the paddy crop, Mr. Sabatkhel directed the authorities to explain the reasons behind this issue. He emphasized that the reports circulating on social media regarding water scarcity for agriculture purposes were deeply disturbing and causing unrest among farmers.
To address this pressing issue, the officials were urged to release water in the canals and take concrete steps to resolve the problems faced by growers during the sowing of rice paddy. It is essential to ensure that farmers have access to sufficient water for their crops.
Additionally, Mr. Sabatkhel chaired a meeting to review the progress of the Kurrum Tangi Dam project. During the meeting, Project Director Mohammad Shafiq Bitanni provided an update on the status of the dam.
Officials from the Asian Development Bank, police, and irrigation departments were also present. The divisional commissioner stressed the importance of completing the dam project without delay. He highlighted that the timely completion of this significant project would contribute to the region’s development and bolster the agriculture sector and its related industries.
Furthermore, he emphasized the various opportunities that the dam would bring, particularly for the development of Shawa tehsil in North Waziristan district and neighboring areas. The dam project, in addition to generating 84MW of electricity, will help irrigate 350,000 acres of barren land. This will pave the way for sustainable peace, development, and prosperity in the region, while also providing valuable livelihood opportunities for the locals.
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