KARACHI: The government of Sindh is sounding the alarm over the possible threat of flooding, with up to 1.6 million people in 1,657 villages at risk if water from the swollen rivers makes its way into the province in the coming days.
Sharjeel Inam Memon, Senior Minister for Sindh, shared his concerns during a media briefing on Saturday, explaining that while the situation was being closely monitored, no immediate emergency actions, like deploying the army, were necessary for now.
Memon emphasized that the provincial government had already set its crisis management machinery in motion. Local ministers and district officials are on the ground, actively overseeing the response efforts. The province has set up relief camps at 551 points, with 192 rescue boats on standby for swift evacuation operations. He noted that around 273,000 families across 167 union councils might be impacted if water levels continue to rise, with a flood threat expected to hit Sindh between September 2 and 3.
Meanwhile, in Punjab, flooding from the Sutlej, Chenab, and Ravi rivers has caused widespread devastation, resulting in over 30 deaths and affecting more than 1.5 million people. The situation there has prompted mass evacuations, with nearly half a million people already moved to safer locations.
Memon provided updates on the river levels in Sindh, stating that the Guddu Barrage was releasing 351,000 cusecs, Sukkur Barrage 289,000 cusecs, and Kotri Barrage 251,000 cusecs. However, with each barrage’s capacity far exceeding current outflows, Memon reassured the public that the risk remains under control—barring any unexpected heavy rainfall.
The minister also stressed that urban centers in Sindh are not at immediate risk and urged citizens not to panic or speculate. “Our government is fully capable of managing the situation without external assistance,” he said.
Memon also highlighted that residents living in riverine or ‘katcha’ areas, who are familiar with the flooding patterns, are being encouraged to move to safer zones when the water rises. Special arrangements have been made for their livestock, with 300 separate camps set up for animals in need of shelter.
In light of the growing climate crisis, Memon cautioned against construction within riverbeds, an issue that could exacerbate flooding risks in the future. Information about water levels and discharge from the barrages will be updated every three hours to ensure timely action.
Though the threat of flooding looms large, the situation remains manageable for now, and authorities are working diligently to protect the lives and livelihoods of those at risk.
