Low-level flood declared at Kotri Barrage

Authorities show negligence in protecting encroachers living along the riverbed

HYDERABAD:

A low-level flood has been reported in Indus River near Kotri Barrage. Despite the report, the authorities have taken no action to relocate people living in the kutcha areas. After the increase in water flow and rising level in the river, the flood water is rapidly spreading in the kutcha areas, which may affect dozens of villages.

On the other hand, due to the weak condition of Latifabad No. 10 embankment, three more breaches have been made to release the water pressure to prevent potential damage.

According to details, a flood-like situation has arisen in the Indus River due to recent rains across the country, and the water flow in the river is increasing day by day. A low-level flood has already been declared at the Guddu and Sukkur barrages. The Flood Forecasting Division on Wednesday had declared a low-level flood at the Kotri Barrage due to an increase in water flow.

According to the Flood Forecasting Division of Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), on Wednesday, the water inflow at Guddu Barrage was 403,346 cusecs and outflow was 393,325 cusecs, while at the Sukkur Barrage, the inflow was 392,962 cusecs and outflow was 377,212 cusecs. On the other hand, according to the Kotri Barrage Control Room, on Wednesday evening, the water inflow at Kotri Barrage was 251,687 cusecs and outflow was 214,392 cusecs.

Due to the increase in water level at Kotri Barrage, the water discharge in the four canals emanating from it, including Pinyari, New Phuleli, and Akramwah, has also increased, causing the water level in these canals to rise alarmingly at several points.

Moreover, the Hyderabad Water and Sewerage Corporation's sewage water discharge into the Indus River or canals is also being affected due to the high water level in the river. This is causing concern for the corporation's officials, as in the past, high water levels in the Pinyari and New Phuleli canals have caused sewage water to overflow into various areas.

Meanwhile, the irrigation department has started monitoring the protective embankments of Kotri Barrage and is placing additional stones at various points to reinforce the embankments.

On the other hand, people taking the flood situation as a source of fun have flocked to the Kotri Barrage, making videos and taking selfies from the protective embankment as part of their entertainment.

Some young visitors have also indulged in swimming in the river, but no measures have been taken by the police or other authorities to stop them, which may lead to drowning incidents.

According to the Flood Forecasting Division, a medium-level flood is currently passing through the Guddu and Sukkur barrages, which will slowly move towards Kotri Barrage, potentially causing a further increase in water level at Kotri Barrage.