Peshawar, In a bid to bolster agricultural productivity and ensure timely completion of public projects, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Irrigation Minister Aqibullah Khan has underscored the significance of expediting the Pehore High-Level Canal Extension project. This initiative is poised to irrigate approximately 16,000 acres of land, marking a critical step toward enhancing the region’s agricultural infrastructure.
According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, during a comprehensive briefing at the Peshawar Irrigation Department, Minister Khan reviewed various ongoing projects and addressed the challenges confronting the department. Emphasizing the integration of in-house technical expertise, Khan advocated for leveraging departmental engineers and staff to advance project execution and efficiency.
The minister’s remarks also touched on the aftermath of the 2022 floods, particularly highlighting the inadequate response to the devastation in Swabi district. He stressed the importance of meticulous damage assessment to facilitate proper recovery and resilience building. Additionally, Khan advised proactive communication strategies, such as using loudspeakers to inform communities about drone-assisted project constructions, thereby fostering public awareness and engagement.
The meeting delved into the progress of approximately 143 irrigation initiatives across the province, supported by the Asian Development Bank under the 2022 ADP. These projects span six districts, with significant undertakings like the Munda headworks bridge reconstruction following flood damage. Furthermore, the minister announced plans to implement SCADA systems for monitoring irrigation water, aiming to optimize distribution and reduce wastage.
With these directives, Minister Khan has set a clear path for the Irrigation Department to elevate its contribution to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s agricultural development and public welfare.