Sindh Prioritizes Climate-Resilient Water Management
Irrigation infrastructure must be made climate resilient, declared Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, reiterating his government’s commitment to fortifying the province’s vital water management system. Describing water management as the foundation of Sindh’s agriculture, he stated, “To achieve self-sufficiency in food and boost exports, we must modernise and make our irrigation infrastructure resilient against climate challenges.”
Enhancing Climate Resilient Irrigation Infrastructure
Chairing a cabinet meeting at CM House, attended by provincial ministers including Sharjeel Inam Memon and Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, the Chief Minister reviewed progress on ongoing irrigation and agriculture projects. He directed departments to ensure timely completion, strict quality adherence, and diligent monitoring. CM Shah highlighted these projects’ importance for food security and economic stability, underscoring a comprehensive approach to addressing water concerns in the province.
Sukkur Barrage Upgrades and K-IV Progress
A significant agenda item was the critical replacement of 27 gates of the Sukkur Barrage during the ongoing canal closure period. Provincial Minister Jam Khan Shoro briefed the CM, noting that work has already commenced on 25 gates. This upgrade aims to prevent water flow disruptions during peak crop seasons, ensuring consistent supply for millions of farmers. CM Shah stressed that the “Sukkur Barrage is the lifeline of Sindh’s agriculture,” making its comprehensive rehabilitation a top priority. Timely completion is crucial to avoid severe impacts on regional food security and water availability, as reported by SindhNews.com.
Further progress was examined for the lining of the vital KB Feeder for K-IV, a project intended to augment Karachi’s water supply by 50 percent. With 60 percent completed, the Chief Minister instructed that at least 70 percent be finished during the current closure to ensure adequate water flow, reduce losses, and meet urban and industrial requirements.
Improving Water Conveyance and Accountability
The Chief Minister also emphasized desilting and regular maintenance of canals for improved conveyance efficiency and fair water distribution. Desilting of Akram Wah, backed by World Bank funding, is underway. He directed the Planning & Development and Finance departments to expedite fund releases and closely monitor project timelines, expenditures, and quality standards. CM Shah warned against delays and substandard work, stressing that water security, agricultural productivity, and urban water supply are interconnected and crucial for the province’s overall stability.
Conclusion
Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah’s directives demonstrate a clear commitment to upgrading Sindh’s irrigation infrastructure to be more climate resilient. The focus on rapid project completion and strict quality control aims to secure adequate water for both agricultural and urban sectors, ensuring long-term food security and economic stability for the province.