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Problem / Project
Background
Due to persistent drought and diminishing coping mechanisms,
a steady trend in displacement to other parts of the province
has been observed during the past few years. Over 85% of the
population has so far been internally displaced while as much
as 94% agricultural lands are hit by drought.
The areas predominantly depend on a network of 7 natural
springs and 2 Karez for irrigation and drinking purpose. With
the exception of the Khanjak Mazar Spring, all water sources
mentioned above have dried out completely.
When the irrigation network was functional, the farmers cultivated
wheat as a staple crop, while cumin, barley and vegetables
made the bulk of remaining agricultural production. Farmers
in Baghni traditionally have little information on irrigation
and water management leading to unnecessary wastage. Under
drought conditions, securing water supplies entails hours
of relentless struggle with hot weather and hilly trails.
Although drinking water is scarce, easy access to this will
not serve as a "pull" factor for the displaced unless
the irrigation network is rehabilitated in areas with very
high displacement such as Roshanabad, Sheen Dara and Khanjak
Mazar.
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Project Objectives
To mitigate the affects of drought and sustaining livelihoods
through: rehabilitation of irrigation resources, revival of
drought affected agriculture land, restocking and protecting
livestock, provision of potable water and increasing food
security under "cash for work" concept.
Project Activities
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52 hand pumps to be installed
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Up to 15 deep water wells dug and operational
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14 irrigation sources, including 1 Karaz and 13 water
channels to be rehabilitated for year-round usage
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1000s of IDPs to be resettled back to their native lands
Beneficiaries
3,665 drought effected at-risk small farmer and pastoral families
(25,655 individuals - including 10,000 potential returnees
who are currently IDPs)
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