A huge amount is needed to rehablitate irrigation system:Mian Yawar

Lahore: Provincial Irrigation Minister, Mian Yawar Zaman has said that Punjab irrigation system is the oldest in the world and a huge amount is required for its rehabilitation, repair and maintenance. Although Punjab government has provided funds of billions of rupees in financial year 2013-14 for the rehabilitation of irrigation system but in spite of this the department is in need of supplementary grant for meeting its number or  requirements, he added.

He expressed these views while replying to a cut motion of opposition members in Punjab Assembly regarding supplementary grant for Punjab Irrigation Department. The Minister said that department requires funds for solving its problems and protection from floods. He said that due to increase in salaries, the expenditures of the department have also increased while funds are also required for giving pension and other benefits to retiring employees every year. He said that rehabilitation work of irrigation system is continuing for which additional funds are provided from time to time. He said that important measures are also being taken for checking canal water theft in the province. He said that all officers and officials of the department have been strictly directed to take timely measures for ensuring water for the crops.