The Punjab government has launched its largest shrimp farming initiative to promote exports and strengthen the province’s blue economy. The project aims to convert underused land into productive farming areas and create new economic opportunities.
Officials said the program is part of a long-term plan to expand aquaculture in Punjab. The Punjab government expects the initiative to support farmers, attract private investment and increase export earnings.
A survey conducted with the assistance of foreign experts identified around 40,000 potential sites for shrimp farming across the province. Based on these findings, in-principle approval has been granted to prepare a plan for shrimp farming on nearly 30,000 acres.
The first major development will take place at Ali Wala. A large hatchery will be established there with the capacity to produce 280 million shrimp annually.
The Ali Wala site will cover around 5,300 acres and include 737 ponds. Two processing plants are also planned at the location. One plant will have a processing capacity of 10 tonnes per hour, while the second will handle five tonnes per hour.
The Punjab government is also developing Pakistan’s first aquaculture mall at Shah Garh. The facility will provide shrimp seed, feed and rental machinery to farmers.
A modern diagnostic laboratory will also be established at Ali Wala. The lab will include chemistry, pathology and microbiology sections. A training center will also be built to support farmers and workers.
Shrimp farming activities have already started in Punjab. Around 5,500 acres across nearly 1,000 farms are currently being used for shrimp cultivation.
Trial production is under way in Muzaffargarh and Sargodha. The government plans to expand the project further in Sargodha through a 500-acre farm that will contain 167 ponds.
Modern technology is also being introduced to improve efficiency. Automated harvesters, auto feeders and advanced monitoring systems will be used at shrimp farms.
Officials said technology trials at Shah Garh have produced encouraging results. So far, 100 individuals have received training in modern shrimp farming methods.
The Punjab government plans to involve the private sector in future phases of the project. University graduates and local farmers will also be encouraged to participate.
Hybrid solar energy systems will be installed to meet electricity needs at shrimp farms. These systems are expected to lower operating costs and improve sustainability.
The Punjab government believes the project can help create jobs and increase exports. It may also support the development of a new aquaculture industry in the province.
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Through this initiative, the Punjab government aims to make better use of available land and strengthen economic activity through modern farming methods.
