BARAIGRAM, NATORE, Feb 6: For the first time in Bangladesh, an advanced irrigation system-Center Pivot Irrigation (CPI)-has been successfully launched at the North Bengal Sugar Mill's Bhabanipur farm in Boraigram of the district.
Unlike the traditional method of drawing water from underground pipes, this modern system uses sprinklers connected to pipes to spray water from above, simulating rainfall.
The project is being implemented with technical support from Austria and financial assistance from the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC)'s Panasi project.
The installation work began on January 2 at the Bhabanipur and Muladuli agricultural farms under the North Bengal Sugar Mill. The pilot project, costing Tk 3.981 crore, has been implemented with the support of Austria's Bayer company under the BADC's surface water irrigation development project for Pabna, Natore, and Sirajganj districts. Sherpa Power Engineering is the contractor for both projects. Technical supervision and training are being provided by two experts: Mr. Jack from China and Mr. Khoya from Vietnam. While work in Boraigram has already been completed, installation at the Muladuli farm in Ishwardi is ongoing.
The system can irrigate 125 acres at a time. Officials expect the technology to bring revolutionary changes in Bangladeshi agriculture by covering large plots quickly while using less water.
Upazila Agriculture Officer, Md. Sajib Al Maruf, said the system will allow simultaneous irrigation of multiple plots. "Traditionally, farmers use deep and shallow tube wells, often overwatering crops, wasting water. The modern system will reduce costs, save water, and ensure year-round supply, positively impacting agriculture," he said.
Sajjad Hossain, Executive Engineer of BADC Natore, confirmed that this is the first center pivot irrigation system installed in Bangladesh, costing Tk 1.985 crore. "It is the most modern, water-efficient irrigation technology. Farmers will get irrigation benefits at minimal cost," he said.
Faisal Ahmed, Executive Engineer of BADC Pabna Region, explained that the pivot system rotates in a circular pattern, distributing water evenly like rainfall. "It ensures uniform irrigation even on uneven land, which helps increase crop production," he added.
Mahabub-ul Islam, In-Charge of the Bhabanipur farm, said the farm has 701 acres, with 125 acres covered under this project. "Previously, irrigating 125 acres required two days and about 250 workers over 60-62 days. With this system, only 60 operators can irrigate the same area in 5-6 days," he said.
Baki Billah, GM (Agriculture) of North Bengal Sugar Mill, said the new system is cost-effective compared to traditional methods. "About 20 acres of fallow land can now be brought under cultivation. Currently, the mill produces 15-17 metric tons of sugarcane per acre. With this advanced irrigation system, production could increase to 30-35 metric tons per acre," he added.
Managing Director Farid Hossain Bhuiya said, "This is the first installation of such a modern irrigation system in the country. It is not only a milestone for the mill but also a major advancement for local agriculture. The project will save time, labor, and water."
The system is expected to transform irrigation practices in Bangladesh by enhancing efficiency, reducing water wastage, and boosting crop productivity, making it a significant step forward for modern farming techniques in the region.
