ADB approves $200m for Pakistan to develop irrigation system

• ADB support to develop irrigation system in Punjab that will help increase agricultural productivity, enhance food security.
• The scheme will provide a reliable irrigation water supply to 704,000 hectares of land in several districts.
• Director-General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov says ADB’s support will help boost the supply of local produce.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a $200 million loan for the development of an irrigation system in Punjab province in Pakistan that will help increase agricultural productivity and enhance food security.

According to a statement issued by the Manilla-based financial institution, the project loan, which is denominated in Japanese yen, will finance the construction of the second branch or Choubara system of the Greater Thal Canal irrigation scheme.

"The scheme will provide reliable irrigation water supply to 704,000 hectares of land in Bhakkar, Jhang, Khushab, Layyah, and Muzaffargarh districts, making them more agriculturally productive," it said.

The government had earlier constructed the main canal and the first branch or Mankera system.

“Given Pakistan’s vulnerability to the impacts of climate change, it is essential to build irrigation infrastructure for climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture,” said ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov.

“ADB’s support will help boost the supply of local produce and promote food security while increasing economic growth.”

Punjab is the main source of food production for Pakistan’s growing population, producing a significant portion of the country’s wheat, rice, sugarcane, and maize. Because of Pakistan’s semi-arid climate, agricultural production is highly dependent on irrigation. 

Yet, irrigation efficiency remains low due to water shortages, land degradation, and mismanagement of water resources.

“By integrating infrastructure and agricultural interventions, this project directly supports smallholder farmers to manage their limited resources more efficiently and maximize the benefits from irrigated agriculture,” said ADB Principal Portfolio Management Specialist Natsuko Totsuka.

“The project will strengthen the capacity of local authorities to maintain these irrigation systems, boost rural economic growth and help to reduce poverty in the province.”