Socio Economic Impact of Small Dams on Local Vicinity: A Case Study of Aza Khel Dam Peshawar

Abstract

An attempt is made in this study to evaluate the impact of Mattani Aza Khel Dam on the crop revenues, agriculture practices and overall socio-economic conditions of the area. Primary data regarding household characteristics and farm related data were collected though pre-tested interview schedule while secondary data was collected from printed documents such as PC-I, PC-IVs, progress reports, Development Statistics etc. After construction of dam in the study area, the crop revenue has significantly increased. The traditional cropping pattern has been shifted to the market oriented crops while yield of almost every crop has been improved. The number of livestock has also been increased. The water table has improved and wells were recharged as before dam construction, people were facing acute shortages of water for domestic use. This has reduced drudgery on the local inhabitants. Before dam these people had no proper source of income due to which they were primarily engaged in illegal practices, however, after dam they had started a new life as majority of the people has sufficient land for agriculture. Certain issues were observed that were hindering optimal use of dam water. The uneven distribution of water, lack of water user association, lack of agriculture extension support services and credit facilities, improper maintenance of canal were the additional problems for the farmers. However if these problems are removed, more benefits can be taken from the dam water for local farmers and overall socio economic growth of the people.