The Economic Importance and Self-Sufficiency of QOSH TEPA Irrigation Canal

Abstract

The Qosh Tepa irrigation canal stands as a significant project in Afghanistan, poised to transform thousands of hectares of arid land into self-sufficient sources of agricultural products. This canal ranks among the largest in the region, diverting water from the Amu River to the Kaldar district of Balkh province. It spans 285 kilometers in length, with a width of 108 meters and a depth of 8.5 meters, extending to the Faryab Andakhoi district. The canal boasts a capacity of 6,500 cubic meters of water per second and 20 billion cubic meters annually, intending to convert 550,000 hectares of dry land into fertile farmland. The canal's completion is planned in three phases. The first phase covers 108 kilometers from the Amu River in Kaldar district to Daulat-Abad district in Balkh province. The second phase spans 177 kilometers from Balkh's Daulat-Abad district to the Faryab Andkhoi district. Finally, the third phase involves supplying water to agricultural lands. Upon the successful implementation of this project, Afghanistan will achieve not only agricultural self-sufficiency but also become an exporter to other countries. This article discusses the Qosh Tepa canal in two parts: the first section focuses on identifying the canal, while the second emphasizes its economic value and importance.