Three solar tube-wells to irrigate 403 kanals in Nowshera

NOWSHERA: Three solar-powered tube-wells have started functioning to provide water to some 250 households in the far-off Walai village in the district.

The Sarhad Rural Support Programme (SRSP) completed the projects under Women Economic Empowerment and Market Development project, which was funded by the government of Australia through Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

District Nazim Nowshera Liaquat Khattak inaugurated the project at a gathering attended by the local government representatives and a large number of people.

Briefing the gathering, a representative of the SRSP said the tube-wells would irrigate 403 kanals land and benefit 250 households. “It was the longstanding demand which was identified by the marigold cultivators. The value chain interventions have created income generating opportunities for women entrepreneurs,” said a local.

Women make flower garlands for sale in local market. The total cost of the project is Rs 5.1 million in which the community share is Rs 1.26 million.

Speaking on the occasion, the district nazim appreciated SRSP for promoting innovative projects at grassroots. “The SRSP’s efforts will go a long way in creating awareness about participatory approach of development,” he said and assured all possible support to the organisation.

He said they had been working with the SRSP since 2001. “We want to utilise uplift funds through SRSP due to its fair way of work,” he added.