- Advertisement -
KARACHI, Jul 11 (APP):Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Friday convened a high-level meeting to review and enhance preparations for the upcoming monsoon rains, emphasising readiness across all relevant departments and institutions province-wide.
The meeting, held at the CM, included provincial ministers Sharjeel memon, Nasir Shah, Saeed Ghani, Jam Khan Shoro, Zia Lanjar, Mohammd Bux Mahar, Mohammad Ali Malkani, Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, IG Police Ghulam Nabi Memon, Commissioner Karachi Hassan Naqvi, provincial secretaries, chief metrologist Ameer Hyder, Disaster Management, water Board, KE, Solid Waste heads and representatives from the Corps-V.
Weather forecasts predict a ‘Heat-Low’ pressure area forming earlier than usual over southern Pakistan, with rainfall expected to be normal to slightly above normal during July and August. Upper Sindh may see a 10 per cent increase in rainfall, while Southern Sindh could experience a rise of 20 to 30 per cent. Flood management remains a priority as the Lower Indus region faces significant risks, with potential flooding from the Indus River and hill torrents.
The Chief Minister, to combat these challenges, has activated all the concerned departments and organisations to improve drainage systems and pumping stations, ensuring they are operational ahead of the monsoon season. Ongoing restoration efforts from 2022 floods focus on critical infrastructure improvements to enhance the region’s resilience against flooding.
The CM was told that the cleaning of nallahs (drains) began on 20th June 2025, with the operation set to continue until 15th September 2025. All major choking points and culverts have been cleared as part of this effort.
Underpasses, including Tariq Road, KPT, Submarine, and Mehran, are being prioritised, while emergency response teams remain on high alert across the city.
It was pointed out that the city faces issues such as inadequate infrastructure to handle over 45 mm of rain per hour, with challenges including plastic waste and encroachments blocking drains, particularly in District Korangi.
The Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB) told the CM that they are deploying additional machinery and manpower during rain emergencies, providing staff with rain gear and tools to manage water effectively.
A mass awareness campaign is underway to educate the public on preventive measures during potential flooding. The SSWMB is also ensuring uninterrupted garbage collection and disposal services throughout this period.
The Irrigation Department has highlighted significant flood management challenges in the Lower Indus region of Pakistan, particularly given its position at the downstream end of the river system, where flood levels, volumes, and durations peak. The main flood sources include the Indus River, hill torrents, and monsoon-induced rainfall.
According to the seasonal outlook for 2025 prepared by the Pakistan Meteorological Department, normal to above-normal rainfall in certain areas may exacerbate flooding, particularly in urban centres of Sindh, Punjab, AJK, and KP. Heavy rainfall could lead to flash floods in hill torrent areas and major cities.
The Lower Indus Basin, which encompasses Manchhar Lake and Hamal Lake, serves as a critical drainage catchment area. However, past flood records indicate that Manchhar Lake’s capacity is often inadequate during severe flooding events.
To combat water-logging and salinity issues, the SCARP projects have been implemented, featuring various drainage arrangements aimed at lowering water tables and reducing surface soil salinity. As part of the monsoon preparedness, numerous pumping stations across the region are operational, ensuring that emergency response measures are in place, including de-silting of drains and infrastructure repairs.
Post-flood restoration efforts following the 2022 disaster have focused on critical infrastructure, including bank restoration and bridge repairs, to enhance resilience and support local economies. As the region gears up for the 2025 monsoon season, continued investment in flood management infrastructure remains a priority to mitigate future risks.