In anticipation of potential heavy flooding in Sindh, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, accompanied by Provincial Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro, Secretary Zarif Kheiro, and Chief Engineer Sardar Shah, reviewed the flood protection strategy. The briefing focused on preparations based on the Sindh Embankment Manual, specifically designed for catastrophic flood situations.
As per the manual’s protocol, four flood control groups have been deployed along the embankments at every mile. Sixteen individuals are assigned round-the-clock patrolling and monitoring of the barriers, reporting any emergencies or unusual water flow. Necessary equipment has been delivered to the embankments, and a thorough inspection of the river embankment and Guddu Barrage surroundings has been conducted.
A total of 3,280 workers are stationed along the 820-mile stretch on the right bank of the Indus River at Guddu and Sukkur barrages. Several locations, including the Left Marginal Bund, KK Bund, KK Feeder Bund, New Ghora Ghat-X Bund, Old Tori Bund, and SB Bund, have been designated as high-risk areas.
The Water Board’s strategy along the River Embankment and Ghotki Feeder Canal area was also reviewed. On the left bank of the Indus River, from Guddu to Sukkur, 2,064 personnel are deployed along the 516-mile stretch. The Qadar Pur Shank Bund, Qadar Loop Bund, Rawanti Bund, Beji Bund, and RN Bund have also been identified as highly sensitive.
Comprehensive safety arrangements have been made at these critical locations, including night lighting for patrols, staff deployment, equipment provision, and the identification, rehabilitation, and strengthening of weak areas. Heavy stones have been placed at sensitive points, and officers are continuously present.
The Chief Minister directed the strengthening of these safety protocols and instructed that designated high-risk embankments be closely monitored and all machinery be fully utilized. He emphasized the importance of vigilant monitoring of sensitive areas and prompt response to any emerging crisis.