Floods in Sindh may affect 1.65 million people: Sharjeel Memon

KARACHI: Sindh’s Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has warned that floods from Punjab are expected to enter Sindh by the night of September 2nd or 3rd. Speaking in a media briefing in Karachi, Memon stated that all departments, including PDMA, are prepared and on high alert to manage any flood-related emergencies.

The minister estimated that the floods could affect approximately 1.65 million people, including 1,657 villages, 167 union councils, and over 273,000 families. Memon further mentioned that 15 districts are located along the riverbanks, and 551 relief camps have been set up to be activated in case of an emergency.

Memon also shared contact numbers for the public to reach out for assistance, which will remain operational 24/7: 021-99222967, 021-99222758, 021-99222902, and 021-99222759. He highlighted that the Sindh government has 192 rescue boats, 565 private boats, and 36 mobile health units ready for deployment.

Addressing water levels at Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri Barrages, Memon assured that the water levels are currently at normal levels. He emphasized the need for people to respect nature and refrain from illegal constructions along riverbanks. He also pointed out that changes in water flow in Punjab have been occurring for decades, not just recently.

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Sharjeel Memon concluded by stating that climate change is the root cause of these challenges and called for a change in public behavior to address this growing issue. Meanwhile, Sindh’s Chief Secretary, Asif Haider Shah, visited the provincial flood control room, where officials briefed him on the flood situation. They confirmed that the flood will pass through Guddu Barrage on September 3rd, with preparations in full swing.