DSWC Rwp constructs 1800 mini dams, 2000 water ponds in Potohar region.

RAWALPINDI -- The Directorate of Soil and Water Conservation (DSWC), Punjab, Rawalpindi Region, under water resources development program has constructed over

1800 mini dams in Potohar Region which are irrigating over 45,000 acres land with 2000 water ponds for 20,000 acres.

According to Director Soil Conservation Muhammad Akram, the construction of the mini dams and water ponds has also developed positive environmental effects in the region.

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, he said.

The mini dams and water bonds are used to divert water for irrigation and other purposes, he said adding, the water accumulated in mini dams can also be utilised for

vegetable and fruit cultivation.

Fish farming was also introduced in the region which has become an additional source of income for the farmers.

All interventions of soil and water conservation are benefiting the farmers of the region.

He informed that the department also managed to plant a large number of saplings in different areas.

Meanwhile, Director Water Management Rawalpindi Division Dr. Iqbal Chohan informed that the department under the soil conservation programme also completed a large number of projects and reclaimed areas, including inlets/outlets projects for 27,245 acres, retaining walls for 27,557 acres, gully plugging spillways for 85,782 acres, spurs for 24,016 acres and 32 earthen bunds.

Forestation completed at 55,520 acres, he said adding, 740,184 acres area was reclaimed under land leveling projects.

Nearly 80 per cent 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 33,190 acres was made cultivable in the region, he informed.

To a question, he informed that a mini dam is constructed on 40 acre.

He said, solid steps were taken for development of agriculture in the region.

He said that the major problems of...