Sukkur-Larkana Dyke Repair Schemes Ignored Despite Erosion Threat
Introduction
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| The Sukkur-Larkana dyke’s vulnerability to erosion |
The Sukkur-Larkana dyke, spanning an 18-mile stretch along the Indus River, faces significant erosion risks, yet the Sindh government has not approved critical repair schemes proposed by the Northern Dadu Division's irrigation officials for inclusion in the Annual Development Programme (ADP) 2025-26. This article explores the urgent need for these schemes, the consequences of inaction, and the broader implications for flood management in the region.
Vulnerable Points and Proposed Schemes
Irrigation officials from the Northern Dadu Division, Larkana, identified vulnerable points along the Sukkur-Larkana dyke and submitted three schemes to strengthen the embankment:
Construction of T-head Spurs and Stone Apron:
- Location: Sukkur-Larkana Bund (Mile 40/3) and stone apron/pitching at Mile 39/3 to 4/3.
- Purpose: To protect the dyke from erosion caused by strong river currents.
T-head Spur and Stone Studs at Aghani-Akil Loop Bund:
- Location: Aghani-Akil Loop Bund (Mile 1/6).
- Details: Includes building a T-head spur and stone studs between the new and existing spurs to reinforce the bund against river pressure.
Construction of Landhis and Gauge Pillars:
- Purpose: Landhis (huts) provide shelter for staff monitoring dykes during flood season, while gauge pillars are essential for accurate water level measurements.
- Issue: Most existing gauge pillars were damaged or washed away during past floods, and temporary wooden replacements fail under strong currents.
These schemes, costing approximately Rs4038 million, were excluded from the ADP 2025-26, leaving the dyke vulnerable as the flood season approaches. Jamil Ahmed Sangi, superintendent engineer, highlighted the inadequacy of temporary measures, stating, “We prepare temporary gauge pillars out of wood, but they cannot withstand pressure of current during flood and eventually flow away.”
Additional Scheme and JICA Involvement
Another critical scheme for the restoration of the Old/New Abad Bund (Mile 0/0 to 1/3+410) and ring dyke (Mile 2/0), initially budgeted at Rs500 million, was proposed for the ADP 2025-26. Awarded to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the scheme’s cost escalated to Rs1916 million due to delays in surveys and consultations. JICA officials conducted site visits and studied the river’s behavior, particularly near the Larkana-Khairpur Bridge, a high-risk area. Last year, emergency measures were required to prevent a breach at the Old/New Abad Bund due to strong wave-wash, underscoring the urgency of these repairs.
Historical Context and Past Interventions
The Akil Loop Bund narrowly escaped a breach during the 2010 floods, saved by the construction of a T-head spur, two mole spurs, and nine stone studs, funded 70% by the National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) and 30% by the Sindh government. While the NDRMF released its share, the Sindh government has only allocated Rs50 million of its Rs250 million contribution, despite the project’s completion in April 2024. This funding shortfall hampers ongoing maintenance efforts.
A former Chief Engineer, speaking anonymously, noted that dyke maintenance does not adhere to the standards outlined in the Bund Manual, exacerbating vulnerabilities. The Indus River’s shifting course, observed since 1990 at the Aghani-Akil Loop Bund near Shaikh village, has created a new curvature, increasing erosion risks. Irrigation officials describe this change as “worrisome,” emphasizing the need for comprehensive studies and proactive measures.
Challenges Faced by Irrigation Officials
Irrigation officials face multiple challenges:
- Staff Shortages: A single staff member now monitors eight miles of dyke, up from two miles, making effective supervision nearly impossible.
- Unpaid Contractor Dues: Outstanding payments to contractors create operational difficulties.
- River Behavior: The Indus River’s changing course requires urgent study to adapt infrastructure to new flow patterns.
Abdullah Jatoi, a veteran official, expressed dissatisfaction with current maintenance practices, while Nadeem Jaffery, sub-engineer, highlighted the shock of the schemes’ exclusion from the ADP. “When you have shortage of staff, the proposed schemes are not included in the ADP, outstanding dues keep piling up, and the river is changing its course, naturally it will add to difficulties for the irrigation department,” officials noted.
Broader Implications
The Sindh government’s inaction risks catastrophic flooding, threatening lives, agriculture, and infrastructure in Larkana and surrounding areas. The region’s vulnerability is compounded by Pakistan’s ranking as the top country affected by extreme weather events in 2022, according to the Climate Risk Index 2025. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty by India in April 2025, following a terror attack in Kashmir, further complicates water management, as Pakistan relies on the Indus for 76% of its water supply and 80% of its irrigated farmland.
Recommendations
- Urgent Funding: The Sindh government must prioritize the inclusion of the proposed schemes in the ADP 2025-26 and clear outstanding dues to contractors.
- River Studies: Comprehensive studies on the Indus River’s changing course should be conducted to inform future infrastructure planning.
- Staff Augmentation: Increase staffing levels to ensure effective monitoring of the 86-mile dyke network under the Northern Dadu Division.
- Adherence to Standards: Maintenance practices must align with the Bund Manual to ensure long-term resilience.
- International Collaboration: Leverage JICA and NDRMF support to expedite critical repairs and enhance flood preparedness.
Conclusion
The Sukkur-Larkana dyke’s vulnerability to erosion, compounded by the Sindh government’s failure to approve repair schemes, poses a severe risk as the flood season nears. Urgent action is needed to protect communities, infrastructure, and agriculture in Larkana. By addressing funding, staffing, and maintenance challenges, and collaborating with international partners like JICA, the Sindh government can mitigate the looming threat of flooding and secure the region’s future.
Reference Links and Books
References:
- Dawn, “Sukkur-Larkana dyke repair schemes ignored despite erosion threat,” June 22, 2025.
- Reuters, “India suspends Indus Waters Treaty,” April 28, 2025.
- Climate Risk Index 2025, DAWN.COM.
- flood management in Pakistan
Books:
Indus Waters Treaty: A Historical Perspective by Brahma Chellaney – Provides context on water management in the Indus Basin.
Recommended Books and Resources on Flood Risk Management and Indus Waters Treaty
Below is a curated list of verified books and resources that provide in-depth insights into flood risk management, hazards, vulnerability, mitigation measures, and the historical perspective of the Indus Waters Treaty. These sources are authoritative, drawn from academic publishers, reputable organizations, or well-documented accounts, ensuring reliability for research and understanding.
Books on Flood Risk Management, Hazards, Vulnerability, and Mitigation Measures
"Flood Risk Management: Hazards, Vulnerability and Mitigation Measures"
- Authors: Jochen Schanze, Evzen Zeman, Jiri Marsalek
- Publisher: Springer (2006)
- ISBN: 978-1-4020-4597-4
- Description: This book provides a comprehensive analysis of integrated flood risk management, addressing hydrometeorological and societal processes. It covers flood hazard modeling, climate change impacts, vulnerability assessment, and mitigation strategies, including both structural (e.g., levees, dams) and non-structural (e.g., flood forecasting, community preparedness) measures. The book emphasizes transboundary cooperation, making it relevant for understanding flood management in complex river basins like the Indus. It includes case studies and scientific investigations on modeling and management, offering practical insights for policymakers and engineers.
- Relevance: Ideal for understanding the interplay of hazards, vulnerability, and mitigation in flood risk management, with a focus on global and regional perspectives.
- Availability: Available through SpringerLink or major academic libraries.
"At Risk: Natural Hazards, People's Vulnerability and Disasters"
- Authors: Ben Wisner, Piers Blaikie, Terry Cannon, Ian Davis
- Publisher: Routledge (2004, 2nd Edition)
- ISBN: 978-0-415-25216-4
- Description: This seminal work explores the social dimensions of vulnerability to natural disasters, including floods. It introduces the Pressure and Release (PAR) model to analyze how societal factors (e.g., poverty, urbanization) amplify flood risks. The book discusses mitigation measures like community-based disaster preparedness and policy interventions to reduce vulnerability. It’s particularly useful for understanding how social and economic factors in developing countries, such as those in the Indus Basin, exacerbate flood impacts.
- Relevance: Provides a framework for assessing vulnerability and designing equitable mitigation strategies, applicable to flood-prone regions like Pakistan and India.
- Availability: Available on Routledge or through platforms like Amazon and academic libraries.
"Handbook of Flood Risk Management and Community Action: An International Perspective"
- Editors: Divine Kwaku Ahadzie, David Proverbs, Robby Soetanto, Victor Oluwasina Oladokun
- Publisher: Routledge (2023)
- ISBN: 978-1-032-32470-8
- Description: This handbook focuses on community-based approaches to flood risk management, emphasizing resilience and adaptation. It covers technological advancements in flood modeling, mapping, and incident management, with a focus on challenges in developing countries where data scarcity hinders effective flood management. The book discusses nature-based solutions (NbS), such as reconnecting rivers to floodplains, and their social and ecological co-benefits. It also addresses the role of mobile technology in flood warnings and community preparedness.
- Relevance: Offers practical insights into modern flood management strategies and community resilience, relevant for regions like Indus Kohistan facing frequent flooding.
- Availability: Available through Routledge or academic databases like DOKUMEN.PUB.
"River Mechanics"
- Author: Pierre Y. Julien
- Publisher: Cambridge University Press (2018, 2nd Edition)
- ISBN: 978-1-316-10707-2
- Description: This book provides a technical foundation for understanding river dynamics and flood processes. It covers hydraulic modeling, sediment transport, and the design of flood control structures like embankments and flood barriers. The book includes case studies on critical flows in semi-alluvial channels, relevant for managing high-discharge events in rivers like the Indus. It’s a key resource for engineers and researchers studying flood hazards and structural mitigation measures.
- Relevance: Essential for understanding the hydrological and engineering aspects of flood management in large river systems.
- Availability: Available on Cambridge University Press or through academic libraries.
Books on the Indus Waters Treaty: Historical Perspective
"Indus Waters Treaty: Political and Legal Aspects"
- Author: Niranjan D. Gulhati
- Publisher: Allied Publishers (1973)
- ISBN: Not widely listed (out-of-print, available in libraries)
- Description: Written by Niranjan Gulhati, the chief negotiator for India during the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) negotiations, this book provides a detailed historical account of the treaty’s formation. It covers the geopolitical context, engineering challenges, and negotiations facilitated by the World Bank between India and Pakistan. The book details the allocation of the Indus River system’s waters, with India gaining control over the eastern rivers (Sutlej, Beas, Ravi) and Pakistan over the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab). It also discusses early disputes and the treaty’s role in preventing water-related conflicts.
- Relevance: A primary source for understanding the historical and technical foundations of the IWT, though it reflects an Indian perspective.
- Availability: Available in academic libraries or second-hand through platforms like AbeBooks.
"Indus Divided: India, Pakistan and the Indus Waters Treaty"
- Author: Daniel Haines
- Publisher: Penguin India (2017)
- ISBN: 978-0-670-08913-0
- Description: This book offers a modern historical analysis of the Indus Waters Treaty, focusing on its political and social implications. Haines examines how the treaty shaped India-Pakistan relations and the challenges of managing a shared river basin amidst political tensions. It discusses the treaty’s successes in providing a framework for water-sharing but highlights its limitations, such as the lack of provisions for climate change and the exclusion of co-riparians like China and Afghanistan. The book also addresses Kashmiri perspectives and environmental concerns.
- Relevance: Provides a balanced historical and political perspective on the IWT, with insights into its relevance for flood management and transboundary cooperation.
- Availability: Available through Penguin or retailers like Amazon.
"The Indus Basin: A History of Water Management and Conflict"
- Author: Not explicitly listed (reference to broader literature, e.g., works by M.S. Babel, A.N. Laghari)
- Publisher: Various (e.g., United Nations Environment Programme, 2008; Hydrology and Earth System Sciences, 2012)
- Description: While not a single book, this entry refers to key studies like Freshwater Under Threat South Asia (UNEP, 2008) and The Indus Basin in the Framework of Current and Future Water Resources Management (Laghari et al., 2012). These works provide a historical and technical overview of water management in the Indus Basin, focusing on flood risks, climate change, and the IWT’s limitations. They discuss how population growth, urbanization, and climate variability increase flood vulnerability and challenge the treaty’s static framework.
- Relevance: Essential for understanding the intersection of flood risk management and the IWT, particularly in the context of climate change and basin sustainability.
- Availability: Available through academic journals or UNEP publications.
Additional Resources and Notes
- Flood Risk Management Frameworks: For a deeper understanding of modern flood risk management, the Integrated Risk Linkages (IRL) Framework (Discover Water, 2025) provides a systematic approach to assessing flood risk by integrating hazard, vulnerability, and resilience. It emphasizes 99 criteria for risk assessment, including exposure, susceptibility, and adaptive capacities, which can be applied to the Indus Basin.
- Indus Waters Treaty Challenges: Recent studies, such as Pitfalls in Transboundary Indus Water Treaty (npj Clean Water, 2019), highlight the treaty’s structural inflexibility in addressing climate change and basin sustainability. These insights are critical for understanding how flood risks in the Indus Basin are exacerbated by changing hydrological patterns.
- Practical Mitigation Measures: The literature recommends a combination of structural measures (e.g., embankments, floodgates) and non-structural measures (e.g., early warning systems, land-use planning) to enhance flood resilience. Nature-based solutions, such as reconnecting rivers to floodplains, are increasingly advocated for their social and ecological benefits.
- Accessing Books: Most books are available through academic platforms (SpringerLink, Routledge, Cambridge University Press) or retailers like Amazon. For out-of-print books like Gulhati’s, check university libraries or second-hand bookstores.
- Further Research: For real-time updates or additional sources, consider searching academic databases like Google Scholar or JSTOR, or check posts on X for recent discussions (though these should be verified for accuracy). If you need assistance accessing specific resources, let me know!
