Rawalpindi, August 26, 2021 (PPI-OT):Speakers at a seminar emphasized that water conservation and management was the only way to overcome the water crisis in the arid agricultural land of the Potohar region. The seminar titled ‘Water Conservation and Management in Potohar Region’ was organized by the Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology (FAE and T) in collaboration with the Office of Research Innovation and Commercialisation (ORIC) of Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi on August 24, 2021.
They stressed the need for small dams, rainwater harvesting and high-efficiency irrigation techniques to increase water storage, which will not only be beneficial for irrigation but also for people and livestock. Speakers from different organizations including Agency for Barani Area Development (ABAD), Agricultural Engineering Department, Directorate of Soil Conservation (DSC) and Water Management (DWM) Rawalpindi, Barani Agriculture Research Institute (BARI) and Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) were invited.
Participants shared their research and development activities related to water conservation and management. Dr. Jehanzeb Masud Cheema (In-charge FAE and T) and Eng. Malik Akbar briefed the participants about the objectives and scope of the seminar. PCRWR Chairman Dr. Mohammad Ashraf highlighted the way forward to address water challenges faced by the Potohar region.
He said water conservation and management in the Potohar region was the need of the hour and agriculture scientists should make their plans accordingly. He said every land had its uniqueness and biodiversity and being agriculture scientists, it was our responsibility to resolve water crisis issues by adopting modern techniques.
The Arid Varsity’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Dr. Qamar uz Zaman, emphasized the need for collaboration and an integrated approach to address the water and agriculture productivity challenges. He appreciated the initiatives taken by different organizations related to water conservation in the Potohar region. Dr. Zaman recommended formulation of the research agenda keeping in view the future water needs to feed the rising population.
Earlier, speakers included ABAD Chief Quratul Ain Rasheed and soil scientist from DSC Dr. Attiqur Rehman, Dr. M Ramzan Ansar from BARI Chakwal and Engr. M Iqbal Chohan from DWM said small dams, rainwater harvesting and high-efficiency irrigation techniques could help the country increase its water storage to the international standard which would not only supplement the irrigation but also provide sufficient drinking water for livestock and people. They also highlighted the government support and work in the Potohar region to overcome the water crisis issue and their impact in the area.
In the end, chief guest Dr. Ashraf and Dr. Qamar uz Zaman distributed certificates and shields among the participants and guest speakers of the seminar. All stakeholders mutually agreed to extend collaboration for more productive outcomes.
For more information, contact:
Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi
Shamsabad, Muree Road Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Tel: +92-051-9290466
Fax: +92-051-9290459
Email: registrar@uaar.edu.pk
Website: www.uaar.edu.pk