Partial damage to Gate number 47 of Sukkur Barrage raises concerns

Dr Abdul Waheed Mastoi
SUKKUR: The Sukkur Barrage, a vital component of Pakistan’s irrigation system, has suffered partial damage to its Gate number 47. The incident has raised concerns among authorities and experts, who fear that the damage could lead to further complications if left unaddressed.
According to reports, Gate number 47 of the Sukkur Barrage was partially damaged due to unknown reasons. The extent of the damage is currently being assessed by experts, who are working to determine the cause of the incident and the necessary repairs.
The high-velocity water flow has resulted in visible cracks in the abutments, which could lead to catastrophic consequences if left unchecked. Swift action is required to assess and address the situation, ensuring the safety and stability of the gate and the surrounding infrastructure.
The pressure exerted on Gate No. 47 has raised concerns about a potential domino effect, where the damage could extend to adjacent gates. Specifically, there is a risk of damage to Gates No. 44 and 46, which could be impacted by the stress on Gate No. 47.
If left unchecked, the pressure on Gate No. 47 could lead to a cascade of failures, compromising the structural integrity of the surrounding gates and potentially disrupting the entire system. It is crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent a wider impact and ensure the stability of the surrounding infrastructure.
With the support of the World Bank, repair work is currently underway at Sukkur Barrage to replace the gates.
Due to the critical condition of the barrage, an emergency has been declared, and the barrage has been completely closed to traffic.
The closure is aimed at ensuring the safety of the public and the barrage’s infrastructure, as the repair work is expected to be complex and time-consuming.
The World Bank’s assistance is crucial in addressing the long-standing issues with the barrage, which is a vital component of Pakistan’s irrigation system.
The complete closure of the barrage for traffic is expected to have significant implications for the local community and commuters, who will need to find alternative routes.
The urgent repair work and emergency declaration underscore the critical need for swift action to address the barrage’s deteriorating condition and prevent potential disasters.
The Sukkur Barrage is a critical component of Pakistan’s irrigation system, providing water to millions of acres of agricultural land. The barrage, which was built in 1932, has been a vital source of water for farmers in Sindh and Punjab provinces.
The partial damage to Gate number 47 has raised concerns among authorities, who fear that the incident could lead to further complications if left unaddressed. Experts are working to assess the damage and determine the necessary repairs. In the meantime, measures are being taken to ensure that the water supply remains unaffected.
The partial damage to Gate number 47 of the Sukkur Barrage is a reminder of the need for regular maintenance and upkeep of our critical infrastructure. Authorities must take immediate action to assess and repair the damage, ensuring that the water supply remains unaffected and that the barrage continues to function smoothly.