Syed Nasir Hussain Shah and Jam Khan Shoro Visit Sukkur Barrage
Irfan Ali
Situation in Punjab is distressing, while Sindh remains under control, says Nasir Hussain Shah
“Precautionary measures being taken in view of flood threat,” say provincial ministers
Karachi Sindh Minister for Energy and member of the Flood Committee established by the Chief Minister Sindh, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, reached Sukkur to review the possible flood situation in the Indus River. He was accompanied by Sindh Minister for Irrigation, Jam Khan Shoro. Both ministers visited the Sukkur Barrage and received a detailed briefing on the rising water levels of the Indus River.
Nasir Hussain Shah stated that his visit will continue to Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze, Nawabshah, Matiari, Hyderabad, Thatta, Sujawal, and coastal areas to thoroughly inspect river embankments, protective arrangements, and flood alerts. He added that through this visit, a report will be prepared to ensure immediate measures in the affected areas.
Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro said that floods have caused large-scale devastation in Punjab, and now the situation is moving towards Sindh. However, the Sindh Government is fully alert and closely monitoring the situation. He noted that the Sukkur Barrage has the capacity to pass 960,000 cusecs of water, and that the protective embankments are strong. He further said, “There is no threat to the barrage structure; Chinese experts have completed the replacement of the gates.”
Jam Khan Shoro informed that despite the flood situation, people living in the katcha (riverine) areas are unwilling to leave their villages. However, the district administration has already started preparations for relief camps so that immediate assistance can be provided if required.
Syed Nasir Hussain Shah stated that the Chief Minister of Sindh has held a high-level meeting on the flood situation, while provincial ministers and landlords are also monitoring conditions. He said that while the situation in Punjab is distressing and we pray for ease there, “Sindh’s situation is currently under control, and we are satisfied.” He emphasized, “As a precautionary measure, advance arrangements are being made to ensure timely action in case of any emergency.”
