Punjab launches shrimp farming project to boost blue economy

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed the conversion of barren land across the province into economic zones under a blue economy programme focused on aquaculture and shrimp farming.

The initiative aims to develop large-scale shrimp farming projects in Sargodha Estate, Ali Wala and Shah Garh, with authorities reporting significant progress in infrastructure development, according to a statement from the chief minister’s office.

Officials said that118 ponds have been excavated at the Sargodha shrimp farming site, while 116 tube wells have been drilled. Land clearance and survey work across 365 acres has been completed, the statement added.

Construction of a warehouse at the site is 90 per cent complete, while work on an administrative block and feed store is continuing. The project spans a total of 500 acres.

In Ali Wala, 90 per cent of 1,267 acres of allocated land has been cleared, while 642 out of 737 ponds have been excavated. Drainage work is 91 per cent complete, and earth filling stands at 80 per cent, officials said.

Construction of administrative and labour facilities, including offices, hostels and warehouses, is also underway, with foundation work completed.

At Shah Garh, water supply work is 90 per cent complete, electrification 95 per cent complete and road construction 97 per cent complete, according to officials.

The provincial government said that the programme marks the introduction of Pakistan’s first large-scale, publicly supported modern shrimp farming system aimed at boosting exports and creating jobs.

Officials said technical assessments have found water temperature suitable for shrimp farming, while experts have submitted initial reports on production trials.

Daily feed supply and use of supplements have shown encouraging results in improving output quality.

“Developing shrimp farming on international standards will turn Punjab into a hub of aquaculture,” Maryam Nawaz said, according to the statement, adding that the project would help generate employment and increase exports.

Authorities said further expansion of the blue economy programme is planned as part of broader efforts to utilise non-arable land for economic development.