The Directorate of Soil Conservation Punjab Rawalpindi Region under ‘Punjab Kissan Package’ and its normal programme constructed 101 mini dams in Potohar region during last two years with 201 water ponds, 39 water storage tanks, 148 gabion spur and 28 earthern bunds.
Talking to a news agency, Director Soil Conservation Department Malik Ghulam Akbar informed that total 1504 structures including 337 gully plugging, 353 water disposal outlets and 298 retaining walls were constructed in the region during the last two financial years, 2016-17 and 2017-18. Nearly 80 percent subsidy was given to the farmers for the construction of all these schemes, he added.
Due to the water reservoirs and soil erosion controlling structures nearly 32,190 acres land was made cultivable in the region, he informed.
The construction of the mini dams and water ponds has also developed positive environmental effects. The underground water table is rising up with more employment opportunities for the people.
Fish and cattle farming businesses are now flourishing in the region. The mini dams and water ponds are being used to divert water for irrigation and other purposes, he said, adding that the water accumulated in mini dams can be utilised for vegetable and fruit cultivation.
The department had constructed over 1200 mini dams in the region. A mini dam is constructed on 40 acre land. He said revolutionary steps were taken for development of agriculture in the region.
