DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Jun 15 (APP):On the special directives of Deputy Commissioner Dera Ismail Khan, the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Relief), Syed Gulfam Abbas Shah, along with Assistant Commissioner DIKhan, Syed Muhammad Arslan, on Sunday conducted an official visit to Jhok Obhechar, a vulnerable Kacha area situated along the Indus River, to assess the increasing threat of riverbank erosion.
During the field visit, the officers closely inspected the eroding riverbank and interacted with local residents to gather first-hand information on the situation. The inspection aimed at identifying the scale of damage and the immediate and long-term needs of the affected population.
The team noted that river erosion in the area has intensified, posing a serious threat to local homes, agricultural land, and livelihoods. In response, Revenue officers have been tasked with conducting a rapid needs assessment, enabling the district administration to prepare and implement prompt relief measures and long-term erosion control strategies.
Speaking to the community, ADC Relief Syed Gulfam Abbas Shah reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities:
“Our priority is to provide timely assistance and work on sustainable solutions. We are actively coordinating with all relevant departments to mitigate the impact of erosion and safeguard lives and property.”
The district administration is expected to compile a detailed report following the revenue officers assessment and coordinate with provincial disaster and irrigation departments for necessary interventions, including embankment strengthening and potential relocation efforts if required.
The visit reflects the government’s proactive approach in addressing climate-induced challenges such as river erosion, particularly in remote and underserved Kacha regions of Dera Ismail Khan.
