Islamabad: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) has approved a significant irrigation project valued at PKR 23.835 billion for the Automated Indus Basin Irrigation System (IBIS), as reported by a news source on February 7.
According to the details, the project was discussed during a CDWP meeting chaired by Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Dr Muhammad Jehanzeb Khan at the P-Block Secretariat. The CDWP recommended the project, titled “Installation of Telemetry System for Real-Time Discharge Monitoring at 27 Key Sites on Indus Basin Irrigation System,” to the National Economic Council (ECNEC) Executive Committee for final approval.
The project, aimed at modernising the IBIS, is proposed to be financed through the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP), with PKR 500 million sponsored by the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) from its resources. The project, under the jurisdiction of IRSA and with execution responsibilities assigned to the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), aims to replace manual irrigation water management systems with automated telemetry equipment at 27 key locations.
This equipment will provide real-time data on water flow and gate positions, addressing control issues and potential inter-provincial disputes. By ensuring transparency, equitable water sharing, and compliance with the Water Apportionment Accord of 1991, the project aims to enhance confidence and harmonise provincial relationships.
Furthermore, the project’s completion is expected to contribute to social, agricultural, and industrial development, creating employment opportunities throughout its execution and maintenance phases. It is important to note that IRSA, mandated by a 1992 Act of Parliament, regulates and distributes surface waters among provinces in accordance with the Water Apportionment Accord of 1991.
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