Maryam approves 30,000-acre shrimp farming plan
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has given in-principle approval for a major shrimp farming project covering 30,000 acres across the province. The plan includes areas such as Bahawalpur and aims to turn unused and barren land into productive aquaculture zones.
The decision was taken during a meeting on shrimp farming and fisheries development in Punjab. Officials briefed the chief minister about progress on the project and the potential for expanding shrimp production in different parts of the province.
Maryam Nawaz directed authorities to speed up work on introducing modern, technology-based shrimp farming in Sargodha. The decision follows successful experimental farming activities in Muzaffargarh.
The chief minister said Punjab had significant potential to develop a large shrimp farming industry. She said barren land could be transformed into productive farms and eventually become a major centre for shrimp exports.
She said the development of a complete local value chain would help Punjab emerge as a leading shrimp-exporting region. The value chain would cover farming, processing, packaging, transportation and marketing.
According to the chief minister, the project could also help save valuable foreign exchange. Local food businesses currently rely on imported shrimp to meet part of their demand. Increasing domestic production could reduce the need for imports and keep more foreign exchange within the country.
Maryam Nawaz directed officials to gradually involve the private sector in the shrimp farming programme. She said private investment and modern technology could help expand production and improve the efficiency of the sector.
The project is also expected to create new employment opportunities in farming, processing, transportation and related businesses. Officials will work on developing the necessary infrastructure and facilities as the programme expands.
The chief minister stressed the need for a modern and commercially viable fisheries sector in Punjab. She directed the relevant departments to ensure that the project moves forward according to a clear and practical plan.
During the meeting, Maryam Nawaz was also given a detailed briefing on the Kahna Fish Market. Officials discussed the market’s development and related fisheries activities.
