To address energy crisis, the project will gradually convert 30 thousand tubewells to solar energy, resulting in an annual savings of $22B in federal & provincial government subsidies.
The International Organization for Agricultural Development (IOAD) has begun a comprehensive plan for the development of water resources, livestock, and agriculture in 18 districts of Balochistan at a cost of 40 million euros, according to the Federal Minister of Science and Technology.
To address the energy crisis, the project will gradually convert 30 thousand tubewells to solar energy, resulting in an annual savings of $22 billion in federal and provincial government subsidies. These funds can be used for education, health, and other development initiatives.
He made these remarks while speaking at an event organised in collaboration with the IOAD here on Saturday. The ceremony was also attended by officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Department of Agriculture, and Balochistan farmers.
The Federal Minister stated that due to the lack of industries and factories in Balochistan, the majority of local people were associated with the agriculture and livestock sectors, that the agriculture sector was severely impacted by electricity requirements, and that the people associated with these sectors were suffering from poverty and destitution, while thousands of cattle died due to drought in 1999.
The economic consequences of this damage are still present. On the other hand, valuable water is lost in Balochistan due to a lack of adequate water storage arrangements. Dams are required to prevent water waste, which causes damage during floods, he stated.
He stated that the Balochistan Irrigation Department should make a proposal in this regard so that feasible steps for dam construction could be taken, adding that due to Iran’s electrical situation, these areas were frequently without electricity.
He stated that the project for water resources, agriculture, and livestock development would be expanded to all districts of Balochistan, and that the Ministry of Science and Technology, with the support of the World Bank, would also organize a donor conference to capitalize on Balochistan’s development opportunities.
Originally published at Business Recorder