Murad approves Rs502m for Sukkur Barrage gates

Approval granted to cover the costs of repairing and replacing damaged gates at the Sukkur Barrage.

KARACHI:

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has approved Rs502 million for the Irrigation Department to cover the costs of repairing and replacing damaged gates at the Sukkur Barrage. The approval was granted during a meeting at CM House, attended by key officials, including Minister Irrigation Jam Khan Shoro and Secretary Irrigation Zarif Khero.

The issue was first identified on June 20, 2024, when damages were detected in Gates 44 and 47 of the Sukkur Barrage. Gate 44 was found twisted but intact, while Gate 47 suffered substantial damage. To prevent further deterioration and facilitate emergency repairs, all barrage gates were fully opened to lower the upstream water levels. This action temporarily reduced water supply to canals originating from the barrage, including the Nara, Rohi, Khairpur East, Khairpur West, Northern Dadu, Rice, and NW canals.

Thanks to round-the-clock efforts by the Irrigation Department's engineers, the barrage's pond level was restored by June 26, 2024, two days ahead of schedule, allowing normal water supply to resume. The Chief Minister praised the team for their hard work, which prevented significant financial losses and potential unrest in Sindh.

Secretary Irrigation Zarif Khero said that Gate 44 has been fabricated and brought to Sukkur, but its installation is postponed due to the flood season, as it is considered risky. Monitoring has shown no further deflection in Gate 44 since June 20, 2024. Mechanical experts have recommended additional strengthening measures, as well as advanced welding repairs to corroded and damaged parts. The CM was also briefed on the replacement of two other gates, which were fabricated at Karachi Shipyard.