Islamabad – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has identified an acute water shortage in Balochistan. According to the ADB report, only 7% of the province’s land remains under cultivation. To address this issue, a digital water and climate monitoring system has been established in Balochistan aimed at providing accurate information.
The report states that automatic weather stations are now providing precise data on rainfall, temperature, and wind speed. Farmers can use this climate data to improve their irrigation schedules. Thanks to the digital system, water wastage has decreased and agricultural productivity has increased.
The report further notes that the Balochistan digital system can now provide timely forecasts of floods and droughts, enabling the government to access reliable information for equitable water distribution and improved management. According to the report, the project has enhanced coordination and planning among various departments. Local communities, after receiving training, are now capable of operating and maintaining these systems.
The ADB report also highlights that the construction of new dams and canal systems has significantly improved the availability of irrigation water, while solar-powered drip irrigation systems are helping conserve water and strengthen agricultural sustainability.
