The Punjab government, in collaboration with the Soil Fertility Department, has launched a Mobile Soil Testing Lab project to assess and restore the fertility of agricultural lands across South Punjab.
Principal Soil Fertility Department Multan, Fatima Bibi, told APP that under the first phase, seven mobile labs are being launched, followed by eight more in the second phase, covering 15 remote districts. These labs will collect soil and water samples to determine fertility levels and guide farmers on improving productivity.
She said the recent floods severely damaged the fertility of agricultural lands in Punjab and South Punjab, as stagnant water affected clay-rich soils by reducing aeration and causing root decay. In contrast, sandy soils benefited from better water absorption, she added.
Fatima Bibi explained that the mobile labs would especially assist farmers in remote areas who find it difficult to visit testing centers. “The initiative aims to provide on-site soil and water analysis so that farmers can receive accurate guidance to enhance crop yields,” she stated.
She highlighted that areas such as Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Alipur, and Shujabad will benefit from the project. In Khanewal district, she noted, soil samples show high salinity and sodium content, which hinder plant nutrient absorption, while the water is also brackish, leading to lower yields.
According to her, 95% of samples from Khanewal showed phosphorus deficiency, while 33% lacked potassium and iron. Around 50% of lands in Multan Division had excessive salt content between 21% and 30%.
Fatima Bibi said that after soil testing, the department issues reports suggesting remedial measures to improve fertility. She added that farmers are also educated through seminars, radio programs, and TV talk shows, urging them to test their soil and water at least once a year for better crop outcomes.
“The Mobile Soil Labs will bring scientific support directly to farmers’ doorsteps,” she concluded, “ensuring informed decisions and improved agricultural productivity in flood-hit regions.”