The proposed pilot and demonstration activity (PDA) focuses on tapping shallow groundwater (emanating from perennial streams) using solar-powered pumping systems in off-grid locations. These are proposed in the Zhob and Mula river basins in Balochistan. The proposed PDA and its implementation in the Balochistan Water Resources Development Project (BWRDP) loan will benefit women through enhanced agricultural skills and livelihoods activities.

Snapshot

Project site Pakistan
Cost US$50,000
Status Ongoing
Approval date April 2017
Completion date June 2017
Category Rural
ADB officer Noriko Sato
Partner -

Description

The proposed PDA aims to design and develop two pilot models for improved water productivity in remote locations. This will include assessing the potential use of technologies like solar irrigation pumps for use of shallow groundwater, installation of drip irrigation for high-value agriculture and prepaid meters. Community-aquifer management will be undertaken by farmer organizations in selected sites of the Zhob and Mula river basins in Balochistan. Womens’s groups will focus on improved agricultural and other livelihood activities and contribute to irrigation subproject design. The results of the PDA will form the basis of a complementary Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction grant to support BWRDP.

Expected Outcomes

Sustainable use of high level technologies including shallow solar pumps and drip irrigation in the project area. The PDA output is a complete design of two pilot model projects with components and cost estimates, and other information needed to satisfy the ADB requirements.

SHARE THIS PAGE