Sukkur: The Sindh Irrigation Department and World Bank (WB) has launched work on the restoration and modernisation of 90-year-old Sukkur Barrage, according to news published on October 6. The WB-funded project is estimated to be completed at a cost of PKR 34 billion.
As per the details, WB Task Team Leader Francois Onimus and Sindh Barrages Improvement Project (SBIP) Project Director Ghulam Mohiuddin Mughal launched the project in a ceremony held at the barrage. Speaking at the occasion, Mr Onimus mentioned that after the restoration and modernisation of the Sukkur Barrage, the oldest barrage of the country would be able to bear an unusual rise in water flows during the flood season in the coming years.
The news sources quoted Mr Onimus saying that along with rehabilitation of the barrage’s civil and mechanical components, all 66 gates of the barrage will be replaced within the scheduled four-year period. According to SPIP Project Director Mighal, Sukkur Barrage has outlived its life; however, this initiative will resolve the issues with off-taking canals and main structure.
A member of SBIP’s technical team said that replacing the gates and their hoisting system will extend the barrage’s life by 50 years. The new gates will ensure a proper and uninterrupted water supply and eradicate the barrage of silt depositing issues. As per the news sources, the concerned department is considering to prepare a new feasibility study in order to find an apt location for constructing new Sukkur barrage.
Iqra holds BS in International Relations and is passionate about writing engaging content on trending real estate topics. When not working, she is either spending time with family, shopping, or discussing shows & movies.
