KHANEWAL/MULTAN (Khyber Mail): A high-level delegation, led by Iftikhar Ali Sahoo, Secretary of the Punjab Agriculture Department, and Florence Rolle, FAO Representative in Pakistan, visited key sites of the Green Climate Fund (GCF)-backed project “Transforming the Indus Basin with Climate Resilient Agriculture and Water Management.” The visit highlighted advances in strengthening climate resilience through modern meteorological infrastructure and climate-smart agricultural practices.
The delegation reviewed the newly installed Automatic Weather Station (AWS) in Khanewal, part of a 15-station network under the project. These stations provide real-time meteorological data, such as wind speed, temperature, humidity, soil moisture, and precipitation, enabling informed decisions on water management, crop planning, and climate adaptation. Other innovative technologies observed included Eddy Covariance (EC) Flux Towers, which measure evapotranspiration to optimize water use, and piezometer sensors that monitor groundwater quality and quantity.
These cutting-edge tools contribute to a digital climate information system, equipping farmers with tailored advisories via mobile apps, SMS alerts, and community platforms. This ensures even smallholder farmers benefit from critical weather and water data to improve their farming practices.
Speaking at the event, Secretary Iftikhar Ali Sahoo emphasized that these technologies mark a pivotal step toward building capacity for climate-smart agriculture and water management. He highlighted that the extended meteorological network will enhance weather forecasting and resource management, directly benefiting farmers and policymakers.
FAO Representative Florence Rolle reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to advancing Pakistan’s climate resilience. She underscored the integration of advanced technologies, such as AWS and satellite-based tools like the WaPOR portal for water productivity monitoring and the ACWA portal for stakeholder coordination. “By merging technology with on-ground practices, we empower farmers to boost productivity and sustainability,” she said.
The delegation also visited the Women Open School (WOS) and Climate Business Field School (CBFS) in Khanewal, innovative training initiatives introduced under the project. The WOS provides female farmers with skills in vegetable production, animal husbandry, and alternative income opportunities, promoting resilience to climate and economic shocks. The CBFS offers male farmers hands-on training in climate-resilient techniques like soil testing, composting, and intercropping. Both programs aim to bolster inclusive economic growth and sustainable agricultural practices.
Technical Advisor and FAO Punjab Head Emelda Berejena stressed the importance of data-driven adaptation, noting that advanced tools like remote sensing and early warning systems enhance the accuracy of forecasting and agricultural advisories. These measures, she said, will help farmers make informed decisions, reduce costs, and improve yields.
Beyond field-level efforts, the project is strengthening the capacity of government agencies and research institutions to integrate climate risk assessments into policy planning, ensuring scalable and sustainable adaptation strategies across Punjab. Implemented in collaboration with the Punjab Agriculture Department, Pakistan Meteorological Department, and other institutions, this initiative aims to address the growing challenges posed by climate variability in Pakistan.
With its success, the project offers a replicable model for scaling climate-smart agriculture nationwide. Strengthened partnerships between governments, international organizations, and local communities remain vital for ensuring the resilience of Pakistan’s agricultural sector.