Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Syed Qaim Ali Shah on Tuesday presided over a meeting held with the Finance, Irrigation, and Planning and Development departments at the CM House regarding the progress on repair and rehabilitation of the irrigation bunds.
The meeting reviewed the progress on repair works of various flood protection bunds that were damaged during last year’s heavy floods.
The CM said that as has already been decided, all encroachments from the Indus River would be removed.
He directed the administrations concerned to take appropriate measures for removal of encroachments and shifting the people to safer places.
He took serious notice of the beldars and daroghas who have not been working, and directed that those who are unwilling to perform their duties be removed immediately.
He also directed that the orders of the Supreme Court with regard to inquiry report about damages and losses to flood protection bunds be implemented in letter and spirit.
He further directed the authorities and officers of the Irrigation Department and the administration concerned to ensure completion of all repair works of flood protection bunds before June 30 in all respects.
The participants of the meeting were informed that there is a $400 million Chinese concessional credit for canal lining.
It was observed that the lining of canal is essential, whereas there are 109 channels and linings of such small canals are to be completed.
It was also observed that the cattle should not be allowed to go into the canals, whereas the canal paths need to be protected.
It was further observed that pakka metalled canal paths should not be constructed on canal paths of flood protection bunds, so as to properly maintain and protect those bunds.
Irrigation Secretary Khalid Haider Memon informed the participants of the meeting that emergency is being declared at the Irrigation Department from the next day.
Six retired engineers with high reputation would train the daroghas and beldars about breaches, leakages and water damages with protective measures, he added.
The chief minister observed that terms of loan are to be discussed, whereas a feasibility report would be prepared about the proposed project.
He also formed a two-member committee comprising Finance Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Irrigation Minister Jam Saifullah Dharejo to submit a detailed report in this regard, and he asked that prompt proposals be submitted.
