CM on whirlwind tour of rain-hit areas

Visits coastal districts as Thatta gets 52mm precipitation in three hours

KARACHI/ THATTA/SUJAWAL/BADIN/TM KHAN:

Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has embarked on an extensive tour of the coastal areas of the province in response to forecasts of heavy rainfall.

Speaking to the media in Sujawal and Badin, the CM reported that Jati (Thatta) has already received 52 mm of rain within three hours.

Accompanied by provincial ministers Nasir Shah, Saeed Ghani, Jam Khan Shoro, and MPA Mukesh Chawla, the CM emphasized the need for preparedness as more rain is expected across the coastal belt.

Provincial ministers Haji Ali Hassan Zardari, Mohammad Ali Malkani, and MPA Shah Hussain Shah received the CM in their respective areas. Shah highlighted that the Khirthar Mountain Range is also experiencing rainfall, leading to increased water levels in Manchhar Lake.

The CM assured that the Irrigation Department has been mobilized to strengthen the embankments of the MNV Drain and FP Bund with the necessary machinery.

Addressing concerns about the capacity of stormwater drains, the CM acknowledged that while the drains can handle current water levels, any overflow could inundate nearby areas. He reassured that nullahs and outfall drains are being cleaned to manage the situation, and in the event of any damage, affected individuals would receive assistance.

During his visit to Badin, the CM inspected the Karo Gunro Outfall Drain System at RD-128, where Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro and Secretary Irrigation Zarif Khero briefed him on the system.

The Karo Gunro Outfall System, a significant drainage project, is designed to manage and dispose of excess water from agricultural lands, particularly in Tando Mohammad Khan, Badin, and Sujawal Districts.

The CM noted that the system aims to prevent waterlogging and salinity, which are significant challenges due to the region's high water table and poor drainage. Secretary Irrigation explained that the outfall drain system comprises 210 Main Drains with a network of Branch and Sub Drains, which channel water from fields towards the Karo Gunro outfall drain, eventually discharging into the Arabian Sea.

The CM directed the Secretary Irrigation to resolve any issues related to the outfall system promptly. During his inspection of Badin's main roads, including Quaid-e-Azam Road and Civil Hospital Road, the CM noted that the Civil Hospital Nullah was overflowing due to the heavy rain and directed the DC Badin to ensure proper cleaning once the rain subsides.

In Tando Mohammad Khan, the CM informed the media that Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro had been dispatched to Badin to inspect the LBOD (Left Bank Outfall Drain). He reported that while outfall drains are above normal levels, rivers are experiencing low-level flooding. Shah also highlighted the government's efforts, in collaboration with donor agencies, to construct 2.1 million flood-resilient houses for those affected by floods, aiming to provide housing for 12.5 million people.

Addressing concerns about the potential closure of Utility Stores and Corporations, Shah expressed his disapproval, stating that the federal government should focus on reducing privileges for the elite rather than withdrawing subsidies for the poor.

Upon his arrival in Tando Mohammad Khan, the CM was received by Special Assistant Qasim Naveed, MPA Aijaz Shah, and others. Shah visited the flood-affected people's colony, where the government has constructed flood-resilient houses. The residents expressed their gratitude to the CM and PPP Chairman, raising slogans of "Jeay Bhutto" and thanking them for providing safe housing. "Today, it is raining, but our children are safe in our homes," the residents told the CM.

During his visit, the CM also offered condolences to the family of former PPP MPA Haji Amin Lakho at their residence. Earlier in the day, the CM, along with his ministers, left Karachi to visit the rain-affected districts. At Quaidabad, Karachi, he inspected the Malir River, which was flowing normally. In Thatta, the CM noted issues of water stagnation in low-lying areas and municipal waste along the roads. Expressing his displeasure, he directed the Deputy Commissioner to activate the municipal administration and ensure the areas are cleaned.

As the CM proceeded to Badin, heavy rain continued, lasting until his arrival in Tando Mohammad Khan, where it began raining once more.