KP Govt approves 420 solar tube wells to support farmers

PESHAWAR, Jul 16 (APP):The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has approved installation of 420 solar-powered tube wells to promote affordable and sustainable energy in the agriculture sector.

According to the Agriculture Department on Thursday, the project would be implemented under two separate schemes and was expected to benefit thousands of acres of farmland across the province.

A budget of Rs two billion has been allocated for the installation of 320 solar agricultural tube wells in various districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The initiative was aimed at reducing farming costs, increase agricultural productivity and encourage the use of environmentally friendly energy.

In addition, 100 solar tube wells would be installed in Kohat under a special package costing Rs225 million, providing improved irrigation facilities for local farmers.

The government has also decided to convert 100 existing agricultural tube wells to solar power, significantly reducing electricity and fuel expenses.

To improve water availability in rain-fed areas, 450 recharge wells would be constructed across the province. All recharge wells would be geo-tagged to ensure better monitoring and management of water resources.

The Agriculture Department said that more than 1,100 farmers would benefit from 3,540 kilowatt-hours of free solar energy. Special monitoring devices would also be installed on solar tube wells to prevent water wastage and promote efficient water use.