Karachi, A World Bank mission recently inspected the ongoing rehabilitation and modernization projects at Guddu and Sukkur Barrages, focusing on the implementation progress and environmental safety measures. The mission, led by Mr. Francois Onimus and Ms. Thiruni Liyanage, evaluated the construction and operational status of new infrastructure like bulkhead gates and explored future plans for enhancing the barrages’ functionality and safety.

According to The World Bank, the team visited various sites, including the contractor camps and workshops, where they observed the preparation and installation of the fifth set of bulkhead gates. The mission was briefed on the civil repair work completed at gate No. 60 and the scheduled arrival of additional gates to continue the installations in the coming months. During their visits, they held meetings with the Project Management Office (PMO) and Project Implementation Consultant (PIC) staff to discuss the progress, which was reported at 57% completion against a planned 100%.

Environmental concerns were also addressed, with specific measures discussed to protect the blind Indus Dolphin during construction activities. The mission was informed of the construction of a gauge well at Kotri Barrage and ongoing design work for trial run gates and coffer dams at Sukkur Barrage, with completion expected by June 1, 2024.

The World Bank representatives emphasized the importance of timely completion of these projects to improve water management and safeguard against flooding, while also ensuring the conservation of local wildlife. The mission concluded with a comprehensive review of the newly constructed facilities, including residential bungalows and the PIC office, underlining the scale and scope of the efforts to modernize these critical infrastructures.