Water Levels Rise at Sindh Barrages Amid Flood Threat; CM Orders Emergency Measures

KARACHI: Following heavy rains in the northern regions and subsequent flooding in Punjab rivers, water levels at Sindh’s barrages have started to rise, prompting the provincial government to initiate precautionary measures.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah chaired a high-level meeting on the flood situation, attended by provincial ministers and senior officials, including Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro, Agriculture Minister Muhammad Bux Mahar, Excise Minister Mukesh Kumar Chawla, and divisional commissioners via video link.

The Chief Minister warned that despite declining water levels in some rivers, Sindh must prepare for an inflow of 700,000 to 900,000 cusecs, with Guddu Barrage expected to reach peak flow on September 8. He directed officials to ensure evacuation of vulnerable populations, establishment of relief camps, and provision of essential services.

According to irrigation department updates, water inflows and outflows are rising at Guddu and Sukkur barrages. Guddu Barrage recorded an inflow of 360,490 cusecs and outflow of 327,481 cusecs, while Sukkur Barrage reported an inflow of 331,155 cusecs and outflow of 277,355 cusecs. At Kotri Barrage, inflow stood at 238,686 cusecs, with outflow at 209,431 cusecs. Water levels at Trimmu and Panjnad have also surged.

Relief efforts are underway across flood-affected districts including Dadu, Rohri, and Larkana. Sindh’s rehabilitation department reported that 528 relief camps have been set up, although many evacuees have not shifted there. So far, over 109,000 people have been relocated from vulnerable “katcha” areas, while 754,527 livestock have been vaccinated at 110 camps.

Medical services have been extended through 169 health camps treating nearly 28,000 patients. In addition, district administrations have been actively relocating families from high-risk zones. Recent evacuations include 42 people from Sukkur and Kandiaro, 21 individuals from Dadu’s Amira Pir area, and multiple families from rural Sukkur villages.

CM Murad Ali Shah directed divisional commissioners to ensure all displaced citizens are provided with adequate shelter, food, and healthcare, stressing that “those leaving their homes must be fully looked after.” Strengthening works on Kashmore-Kandhkot and Qadirpur Shank embankments are also ongoing to mitigate flood risks.