Australia has committed AUD 3 million to fund a crucial water management project in Pakistan, aimed at enhancing the country’s climate resilience and improving water allocation. The Memorandum of Subsidiary Agreement for the project, titled “Climate Resilient and Adaptive Water Allocation,” was signed after receiving approval from Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Ahad Cheema. Secretary Economic Affairs, Dr. Kazim Niaz, signed the agreement alongside Professor Wendy Umberger, Chief Executive of the Australian Center for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR).
This five-year research initiative, which will run until 2029, seeks to address the critical issue of water reliability in Pakistan’s agricultural sector. Specifically, the project will focus on improving canal water management and allocation practices, which are vital for sustaining Pakistan’s farming communities. One of the key components of the project is the update of Pakistan’s Water Apportionment Accord Tool, a system that governs water distribution, to better accommodate mid-season planning and operations. This update aims to ensure that water resources are allocated more effectively, particularly in the face of changing climate conditions.
Additionally, the project will explore on-farm water storage options, enhancing Pakistan’s ability to manage water during periods of scarcity or drought. These measures are intended to support adaptive management, making the agricultural sector more resilient to climate change while promoting equitable water use. By focusing on improving water reliability, the project aims to foster better social and economic outcomes for Pakistan’s farming communities, ensuring that water resources are used efficiently and sustainably.
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During the signing ceremony, Dr. Kazim Niaz expressed his gratitude to the Australian Government for its continued support in Pakistan’s efforts to develop its agricultural sector. He emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change, particularly in countries like Pakistan, where agriculture plays a pivotal role in the economy and livelihoods of millions.
The Australian Center for International Agricultural Research has long been involved in fostering research and innovation in agricultural practices worldwide, and this latest initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening climate resilience in Pakistan. By contributing AUD 3 million to this project, Australia is helping to ensure that Pakistan can implement sustainable water management strategies that are crucial for the future of its agricultural sector.
This partnership also reflects the broader commitment of both nations to addressing the global challenges posed by climate change, with a particular focus on sustainable resource management. As the project unfolds over the next five years, it is expected to make a meaningful impact on how Pakistan manages its water resources, ultimately benefiting its farming communities and contributing to the overall development of the country’s agricultural sector.
