Summary Punjab launches shrimp farming project to convert barren land into economic zones. Major progress seen as ponds, roads, and infrastructure near completion, boosting jobs and exports.
LAHORE (Dunya News) - Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched a transformative initiative to convert barren land into economic zones through large-scale shrimp farming projects.
Significant progress has been achieved at the Sargodha Shrimp Estate, where excavation of 118 out of 126 ponds has been completed, while 92 percent of their embankments are ready. Boring of 116 tube wells has also been completed, with the water supply system reaching 92 percent completion.
After clearing and surveying 365 acres of land, groundwork has been completed for a 2,020-meter-long road. Construction of a warehouse is 90 percent complete, while work on other buildings is ongoing. The total project spans 500 acres.
Rapid progress is also being observed at the Ali Wala Shrimp Estate, where 90 percent of the 1,267 acres has been cleared, and 642 out of 737 ponds have been completed.
The drainage system is 91 percent complete, including MDC drains excavation. Survey of a 9,000-meter-long road network has been finalized, with 80 percent of earth filling completed, while boring of 317 tube wells has also been finished. Basic infrastructure including admin office, hostel, warehouse, and labor residences has been completed.
At Shahgarh Shrimp Farm, 90 percent of water supply, 95 percent of electrification, and 97 percent of road construction work has been completed.
This is Punjab’s first modern, scientifically managed shrimp farming project under government patronage, where experts have declared water temperature suitable for aquaculture. Shrimp are being provided 114 kilograms of feed daily, and the use of supplements has shown encouraging results in improving both production and quality.
Appreciating the pace of work, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said that world-class shrimp farming will turn Punjab into a key hub of aquaculture, helping reclaim barren lands while boosting employment opportunities and exports.
