Agriculture is considered a vital pillar of Afghanistan’s economy. Particularly in areas facing water shortages, water management and canal construction are essential steps toward economic development and agricultural growth. In this context, the initiation of construction work on the first phase of the Shahi Canal in Laghman Province marks a significant development that is expected to fundamentally transform the region’s agricultural sector.
The Shahi Canal project stretches approximately 70 kilometers, with the first phase covering 6.6 kilometers. Implemented in two phases, the completion of the first phase will irrigate 5,000 hectares of farmland, ensuring the irrigation and greening of agricultural land in Laghman Province. Upon full completion, the canal will irrigate 20,000 hectares, providing new opportunities for local farmers.
For most of Afghanistan’s population, agriculture is a primary source of income. Water scarcity and improper distribution are major obstacles to agricultural expansion. Projects like the Shahi Canal will greatly assist in overcoming these challenges. The construction of canals and the regular flow of water offer farmers the chance to effectively cultivate their land and increase their crop yields.
The construction cost for the first phase of the Shahi Canal is estimated at $8 million, funded by the Afghan caretaker government’s development budget. This project is crucial for offering local farmers better opportunities to enhance agricultural production. The irrigation of farmland will not only benefit the local economy but also provide new sources of income for the people in the region.
From the perspective of local residents in Laghman, the Shahi Canal project represents a foundational step toward the region’s greening. They believe that, once the canal is fully completed, barren lands will become green, and thousands of hectares of farmland in Laghman will receive a steady supply of water. The project will also reduce water wastage, bringing new economic changes to the region. Local farmers are urging the Afghan caretaker government to promptly start work on the remaining sections of the canal to ensure consistent water distribution for all areas.
Water management is a critical need for agricultural growth in Afghanistan. A significant amount of water is wasted due to the absence of canals or improper water distribution. Projects like the Shahi Canal will not only prevent water wastage but also aid in the proper distribution of water. This will allow farmers in the region to effectively utilize their agricultural land and achieve higher production.
Moreover, the Shahi Canal project will create new job opportunities for the local population. The implementation of agricultural projects and water management systems consistently provides employment opportunities for people. The construction of the Shahi Canal in Laghman will open numerous opportunities for the local community, reducing unemployment and strengthening the economic status of the people.
In conclusion, the Shahi Canal project is a vital step for Laghman Province that will not only irrigate the region’s farmland but also reduce water wastage. By initiating this project, the Afghan caretaker government demonstrates its commitment to improving the country’s agricultural resources and focusing on water management. This project is a significant advancement in Afghanistan’s water management and agricultural growth, with long-term impacts on strengthening the country’s agricultural sector.
