LAHORE: Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched an ambitious project aimed at converting unused and barren land into productive economic zones through modern shrimp farming.
Work is progressing swiftly at the Sargodha Shrimp Estate, where 118 out of 126 ponds have been excavated and nearly 92 percent of embankment construction has been completed. Around 116 tube wells have been installed, with the water supply network also nearing completion. Development on 365 acres includes groundwork for a road stretching over two kilometers, while a warehouse is close to completion and additional structures are under construction. The overall project covers 500 acres.
Similar momentum is visible at the Ali Wala Shrimp Estate, where land clearing has reached 90 percent across 1,267 acres. A total of 642 ponds have been completed, alongside major progress in drainage infrastructure, including MDC drains.
Surveying for a 9-kilometer road network has been finalized, and most of the earthwork is complete. Over 300 tube wells have been installed, and essential facilities such as administrative offices, accommodation, and storage units are already in place.
At Shahgarh Shrimp Farm, development work is also nearing completion, with water supply systems, electrification, and road infrastructure almost fully established.
This marks Punjab’s first government-backed, scientifically managed shrimp farming initiative. Experts have confirmed that local water temperatures are suitable for aquaculture. Currently, shrimp are being fed approximately 114 kilograms of feed daily, and the use of supplements is yielding positive results in terms of both productivity and quality.
Praising the rapid pace of development, the chief minister expressed confidence that the initiative will position Punjab as a major aquaculture hub, revitalizing barren lands while generating employment and boosting exports.
