KARACHI, Jan 10 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, presiding over an important review meeting, assessed ongoing development projects, emphasising irrigation infrastructure and agricultural growth vital for the province\u2019s economy and directed concerned departments to ensure timely completion, strict quality standards, and diligent monitoring of all key projects, underscoring their importance for food security and economic stability.
\n The meeting, held at CM House, was attended by provincial ministers, Provincial Ministers Sharjeel Inam Memon, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Saeed Ghani, Jam Khan Shoro, Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab, Chief Secretary Sindh Asif Hyder Shah, Chairman Planning & Development Najam Shah, Commissioner Karachi Hassan Naqvi, Home Secretary Iqbal Memon, Secretary Finance Fayaz Jatoi, Secretary Irrigation Zarif Khero, Director General P&D Altaf Sario and others.
\n The chief minister highlighted a comprehensive approach to addressing water and agriculture concerns. He said that his government\u2019s commitment to strengthening the irrigation system, calling water management the backbone of Sindh\u2019s agricultural success. “To achieve self-sufficiency in food and boost exports, we must modernise and make our irrigation infrastructure resilient against climate challenges,\u201d he stated.
\nIrrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro briefed the CM on ongoing and upcoming projects, including the critical task of replacing 27 gates of the Sukkur Barrage during this canal closure. This upgrade aims to prevent water flow disruptions during peak crop seasons, ensuring a sustained water supply for millions of farmers.
\nThe government has already initiated work on 25 gates, with a focus on completing all replacements within the stipulated timeframe. Mr Shah emphasised that the Sukkur Barrage is the lifeline of Sindh\u2019s agriculture, making its rehabilitation a top priority. He also directed increasing the scope to cover all 27 gates, warning that any delay could severely impact regional food security and water availability.
\nThe CM reviewed progress on the vital KB Feeder lining for K-IV, a project designed to augment Karachi\u2019s water supply by 50 per cent. The work is currently 60 per cent completed and is expected to finish by the end of January. Murad Shah expressed concern over partial completion and instructed that at least 70 per cent be completed during the current canal closure to ensure adequate water flow, reduce losses, and support urban and industrial needs.
\nCanal desilting and maintenance
\nChief Minister Murad Shah emphasised the importance of desilting and regular maintenance of canals to improve conveyance efficiency and water distribution fairness. Desilting of Akram Wah, supported by World Bank funding, is underway and awaiting approval, with other canal projects progressing rapidly. He urged accelerated efforts to prevent water shortages during the upcoming crop season.
\nFunding, monitoring, and Evaluation
\nThe chief minister directed the Planning & Development and Finance departments to expedite fund releases and closely monitor project progress, expenditures, and quality standards. He warned against delays and substandard work, stressing that water security, agricultural productivity, and urban water supply are interconnected and crucial for the province\u2019s overall stability.
\nMurad Shah concluded by instructing departments to submit detailed progress reports on all projects and emphasised that accountability measures would be enforced for any delays or quality issues, ensuring that development goals are achieved to support Sindh\u2019s economic growth.<\/p>\n