SUKKUR – Sindh’s Irrigation Minister, Jam Khan Shoro, announced on Monday that the replacement of 16 gates of the Sukkur Barrage has been completed. This marks the end of the first phase of a major rehabilitation project aimed at improving the province’s water infrastructure.
The minister shared the update during a press briefing, saying that the second phase will begin in October 2025. In this stage, another 28 gates will be replaced by June 2026.
The Sukkur Barrage, which is almost a century old, has 66 gates in total. It is a crucial part of Sindh’s irrigation system, supplying water to millions of acres of farmland.
The project aims to increase the life of the barrage by 30 years. The replacement of old gates will also eliminate the use of its 3,500-ton counterweight, which will enhance safety and efficiency.
The minister mentioned that some delays occurred due to political protests and global conflicts. For security purposes, a protective sheet has now been placed in front of the barrage.
Previously, two gates of the Sukkur Barrage, number 44 and 47, were damaged in June 2024. Gate 47 had collapsed into the river. Chinese engineers were brought in to handle the urgent repairs.
Earlier in 2023, six gates were successfully replaced under a credit facility provided by the World Bank. These included gates 31, 33, 34, 35, 39, and 40.
Jam Khan Shoro also highlighted the growing impact of climate change on Sindh’s agriculture. He said that efforts are being made to ensure water reaches the tail-end of canals to support farming communities.
The Sukkur Barrage, built in 1932 by the British, remains a lifeline for Sindh. Its ongoing restoration is considered essential for managing the province’s water supply amid rising environmental challenges.
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