Pakistan tackles agriculture with new bio-saline project

Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) of Pakistan has established a bio-saline center, an initiative that could pave the way for innovative agricultural practices and reclaim degraded land. This comes as a solution to the salinity issue; a significant portion of Pakistan’s arable land is considered unproductive due to salinity, affecting nearly 6.3 million hectares. 

Funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), the project has been a collaborative effort between SAU and multiple local institutions. At a recent ceremony, officials highlighted the project’s achievements, which include the development of a comprehensive water management plan. This plan involves monitoring water discharge from 14 key canals, analyzing agricultural water usage, and evaluating the efficiency of this resource.

One notable aspect of the project is its focus on identifying plant species capable of reducing soil salinity. Experiments on a saline-affected farm near Bulri Shah Karim showed promise for several tree and plant species, which could potentially be used to regenerate degraded land. Khirol, Chiku, Conocarpus, Sukh Chain, and Eucalyptus were among the species tested, with promising results.

The significance of the project extends beyond Pakistan’s borders. With over 35 partner institutions involved, the initiative has global relevance and aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices. The project’s findings and recommendations are expected to have far-reaching implications, offering valuable insights and practical solutions for land salinity management.

Experts believe that addressing land salinity is crucial for maintaining the country’s agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. The establishment of the bio-saline center at SAU represents a crucial step in this direction, highlighting the potential for innovative solutions to tackle this pressing challenge.

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