Activities in Iran

In this field, JICA has moved forward with technical transfers pertaining to the establishment of agricultural infrastructure and rural development. These moves include the implementation of various development studies, a model field improvement project and assistance in establishing a training center. JICA has also dispatched an advisor to the Ministry of Jihad-e-Agriculture, who is responding to a variety of requests from the Iranian side. One of these projects that is currently underway is: "The Study on Kerman Province Qanat Emergency Recovery Support.

Activities of JICA Experts in the Agricultural Sector

Chaharmahal and Bakhtiary Province: Mr. Taira has participated in a local meeting by presence of the Jihad-e-Agriculture's experts to find out problems that local farmers face with.

The experts of JICA and Ministry of Jihad-e-Agriculture during regional survey in Kermanshah Province

The Study on Kerman Province Qanat Emergency Recovery Support

JICA Expert is going inside a Ghanat well for survey

After the big earthquake in Bam in 2003, one of the sectors that was seriously damaged was the area's traditional irrigation network. Since ancient times, qanats served as the most important way to convey water in this district.

The Ministry of Jihad-e Agriculture conducted emergency activities to reopen damaged qanats, but an integrated study was still necessary. This study began in November 2006 and will continue for three years. The study is being performed by a JICA study team along with the cooperation of Ministry of Jihad-e Agriculture in Bam Township. Activities of Phase 1 include: the collection of data, a social survey, a re-evaluation of the traditional irrigation system, the use of GIS data to make an inventory for the area's irrigation system, the preparation of a draft Master Plan and executive plan for project. Phase 2 of the study will include the following activities: the finalization of the Master Plan and executive plan, making a development plan based on the verification study from phase 1, verification of the effectiveness of recommended technology, the recovery of irrigation facilities, the improvement of farm management, and the re-establishment of water users associations. Based on overall goal of the study, it is expected that the situation of irrigation in Bam district will return to its pre-earthquake level.

Establishment of Participatory Water System Project in Golestan Province

Executing stage of JICA technical cooperation with the aim of optimization of water consumption in Golestan Province will be started from spring of 2008. The fruit of the first phase of this long term project will be water management in agricultural sector. Based on the findings from previous surveys, it has been specified that water shortage is one of the main problems for the local farmers. Inefficient water utilization in the province has led to low agricultural product in the region and as a result farmers' income has not increased.