Peshawar: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has stepped up efforts to modernise irrigation infrastructure and promote efficient water management as part of its strategy to strengthen agricultural productivity and address growing water challenges.
The renewed focus came during a meeting chaired by Adviser to the Chief Minister on Agriculture, Mian Muhammad Umar to review progress on the World Bank-assisted Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Irrigated Agriculture Improvement Project and outline priorities for its next phase.
The meeting reviewed the implementation of key interventions, including the construction and rehabilitation of watercourses and the installation of high-efficiency irrigation systems such as drip, sprinkler and rain gun technologies aimed at reducing water wastage and improving irrigation practices.
Officials informed the meeting that the Rs 40 billion project, launched in 2020, was helping expand modern irrigation methods across the province to enhance crop yields, improve water-use efficiency and support sustainable agricultural development.
Mian Muhammad Umar said the adoption of advanced irrigation technologies would not only conserve water but also improve crop quality, optimise fertiliser use and reduce cultivation costs for farmers.
He directed the Agriculture Department and On-Farm Water Management authorities to strengthen coordination with farming communities and ensure their active participation in the planning and execution of development projects to maximise their benefits.
The adviser said timely implementation of development initiatives and wider adoption of climate-smart irrigation practices would remain central to the province’s efforts to enhance food security and improve farmers’ livelihoods.