Graduate Seminar Report: Empowering the Irrigation Reforming Institutions in Sindh

Nazeer Ahmed Essani, General Manager (Transition) of the Sindh Irrigation Drainage Authority (SIDA), on January 29, 2016. The seminar aimed to discuss the importance of institutional reforms in the water sector of Pakistan, particularly in Sindh Province. Mr. Essani provided a historical perspective on the Indus River and its role in early community irrigation systems. He emphasized the need for fair distribution of water among all stakeholders, including tail-end and small farmers. To achieve this, he suggested transforming the Irrigation Department into autonomous bodies such as SIDA, Area Water Boards (AWBs), and Farmer Organizations (FOs). These institutions are responsible for maintaining barrages, canals, distributaries, and minors, ensuring fair and transparent delivery of water to farmers according to their legal share. Mr. Essani presented a multimedia presentation, which included graphical representations of water use and conveyance efficiencies, irrigation water equity and reliability, baseline surveys, comparison of crop yields, and Abiana recovery mechanisms. He highlighted the need for institutional reforms in the water sector to ensure fair distribution of water. SIDA is working to bring such reforms at the grassroots level in designated districts of Sindh Province. Mr. Essani also emphasized the importance of water reservoirs to save water and prevent extreme water scarcity. He suggested constructing small dams on hilly areas to store rainfall water and regulate it for irrigation purposes in an organized spate irrigation system. The seminar was attended by almost all students of the USPCAS-W, and it was followed by a question-and-answer session. The efforts of Mr. Nazeer Essani Memon were appreciated by Prof. Dr. Bakhshal Khan Lashari, Project Director of USPCAS-W, in his vote of thanks to the participants and guests. The seminar was part of the Graduate Seminar Series, which is a regular feature of the USPCAS-W. The series aims to keep students and faculty informed about the latest research findings, facts, and trends in water and related sectors. Experts from the field are invited to deliver lectures and presentations on emerging water-related issues and best practices adopted worldwide. The seminar series has organized several seminars since its inception, including topics such as spate irrigation, health, safety, and environment, impact of climate change on water resources, water quality, and water resources management. The seminars provide a platform for students and faculty to engage with experts and learn about the latest developments in the water sector. The USPCAS-W is a collaborative effort between the University of Sindh, the University of Engineering and Technology, and the University of Karachi, with the support of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The center aims to provide advanced education and research opportunities in water and related sectors, with a focus on addressing the water challenges faced by Pakistan.