Impact of small dams on agriculture and groundwater development: A case study from Pakistan

Water resources development and management is imperative for sustainable agriculture in water scarce areas. In Pakistan, the state of Punjab has constructed 32 small dams, in the Pothwar region, to store and conserve water for agricultural production. However, little information is available on the impact of these small dams on agriculture and socio-economic conditions of the area. This study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of three small dams, Jawa, Kasala and Dhok Sanday Mar, on agriculture and groundwater development in the area and to provide guidelines for the effective utilization and sustainable management of small dams in Pakistan. Data related to on-farm practices were collected during personal interviews using a pre-tested questionnaire. Water-table depth was measured from the open wells in the area with a water-table recorder. Secondary data such as inflow, outflow, rainfall, water charges and land use were collected from small dams organization.