ISLAMABAD, Oct 11 (ABC): Sindh has proposed a $9.15 million climate-resilient floating agriculture project targeting 100 waterlogged and flood-prone villages in the province’s lower region. The initiative aims to develop 400 hectares of resilient cropland and train 10,000 farmers by 2029.
According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the project, titled Climate-Resilient Floating Agriculture Systems for Waterlogged and Flood-Prone Areas of Lower Sindh, envisages introducing floating agriculture using organic rafts to cultivate vegetables, herbs and grains.
The initiative aims to improve food security by 30% by 2029 while reducing displacement and strengthening livelihoods in communities affected by waterlogging and floods.
The programme targets 100 villages and 400 hectares of climate-resilient cropland. It is expected to benefit 12,500 people directly and another 50,000 indirectly.
Training planned for 10,000 farmers
Under the proposed project, 10,000 farmers would receive training in floating agriculture and climate-smart, flood-resilient farming techniques. Women are expected to account for 20% to 30% of the farmers targeted for training.
The project also envisages supporting women-led farmer groups through training and seed capital. These interventions aim to strengthen livelihoods and improve food security in vulnerable rural communities.
Proposed activities include cultivating crops on organic rafts, providing practical training in climate-resilient farming and supporting women’s participation in agricultural production.
Project targets improved food security by 2029
The Environment, Climate Change and Coastal Development Department (ECC&CDD), Sindh, has been identified as the executing entity.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), National Agricultural Research Centre, Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam and Sindh Agriculture Department are listed as supporting organisations.
According to the document, the programme targets a 30% improvement in food security by 2029. It also envisages covering 100 waterlogged villages and developing 400 hectares of resilient cropland.
The proposed budget stands at $9.15 million. The initiative is among the projects being processed under the World Bank Country Partnership Framework for Pakistan, covering FY2026 to FY2035.
