Phase two of a mini dam construction project in the rain-fed Potohar region has started by the Punjab Agriculture Department, providing a 70 percent subsidy to support year-round irrigation, horticulture, and fish farming as part of a three-year Agriculture Transformation Plan.
Last fiscal year, the first phase saw the completion of 111 mini dams. The second phase targets the construction of 150 mini dams across the Rawalpindi division before June 30, 2027.
Each mini dam receives a subsidy of Rs1.75 million, and authorities have disbursed billions of rupees for the undertaking.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz initiated the program for the Potohar region to collect rainwater in these structures for agricultural irrigation.
This program aims to stop soil erosion, lessen flood damage, guarantee constant water access for farmland, and raise groundwater levels. It also supports profitable ventures like horticulture and dairy farming.
Local growers support the program. Farmers Afzal Ali and Faizan stated that the scheme aids them by supplying reliable water for crops and orchards all year long.
They mentioned that households can raise fish inside the mini dams and that the water reservoirs can attract aquatic birds.
