Punjab Launches Shrimp Project to Transform Barren Land into Economic Zones

Punjab’s Shrimp Farming Initiative

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched an ambitious project to transform barren land in Punjab into thriving economic zones through large-scale shrimp farming.

Significant progress is being made at the Sargodha Shrimp Estate, where 118 of 126 ponds have been excavated and 92 percent of their embankments are ready. The 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 for a 2,020-meter-long road is complete. Construction of a warehouse is 90 percent finished, while work on other buildings continues. The total project spans 500 acres.

At Ali Wala Shrimp Estate, 90 percent of the 1,267 acres has been cleared and 642 out of 737 ponds 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 done.

At Shahgarh Shrimp Farm, 90 percent of water supply, 95 percent of electrification, and 97 percent of road construction work is completed.

This government-backed project, the first modern shrimp farming initiative in Punjab, features expert-managed aquaculture. Water temperature is suitable for aquaculture, with shrimp receiving 114 kilograms of feed daily. The use of supplements has improved production and quality, boosting employment opportunities and exports.