Pakistan/USAID : irrigation development options and investment strategies for the 1980"s

This paper reports a study team"s findings and recommendations for improving the system. Given Pakistan"s limited irrigation potential, the team recommends that A.I.D. adopt a twofold strategy, providing supplemental irrigation in rainfed hill areas by developing small irrigation reservoirs (tanks), and, where possible, developing tubewells outside of existing irrigation command areas. Such efforts, which should consider new technologies such as low pressure sprinklers and buried pipes, would help address equity issues and help farmers most in need. Specific programs recommended for A.I.D. support include: evaluation of existing shallow tubewell pumping; general analysis of the existing irrigation system to develop area models of water balance, quality, and drainage; a cost analysis of canal, watercourse, and on-farm irrigation improvements, followed by a shallow tubewell development program if appropriate; an applied research and development program to improve tubewell cost-effectiveness and to provide for in-country tubewell production; and extension of rural electrification to service tubewells, using increased generating capacity from direct river-run hydroelectric plants. The team also recommends increased A.I.D. support for politically acceptable water users" organizations, including distribution of training materials and training of field and professional personnel. Continued A.I.D. support of adaptive irrigation research is strongly urged.