ISLAMABAD, Jul 05 (ABC): The Rs23.44 billion Sukkur Barrage rehabilitation and modernization project has reached 58% physical completion and remains on track for completion in February 2027.
According to official documents obtained by Wealth Pakistan, the project has also achieved 49% financial progress. The initiative aims to strengthen Sindh’s irrigation network and improve the long-term reliability of one of Pakistan’s most important water infrastructure assets.
Major rehabilitation work underway
A joint venture of China Road and Bridge Corporation and Hubei Shuizong Water Resources and Hydropower Construction Co. Ltd. is executing the Sukkur Barrage Improvement Project (SBIP/S1).
The original contract was valued at Rs17.07 billion. However, approved variation orders increased the project cost to Rs23.44 billion.
The authorities issued the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) on August 19, 2022. They signed the contract agreement on October 24, 2022, and began construction on February 24, 2023.
The project has a construction period of 1,460 days, excluding the 265-day Defects Notification Period (DNP).
Work progresses on key project components
Engineers are constructing cofferdams in multiple phases across 36 barrage gates in the river section and eight gates in the tail channel.
Meanwhile, teams are carrying out mechanical and electrical rehabilitation of 44 gates and hoists.
Civil engineering crews are repairing and strengthening 44 barrage bays, foundations and associated structures. These improvements will enhance the barrage’s operational safety and efficiency.
Workers are also dredging the left and right pockets, the approach channel and the tail channel. These activities will improve water flow and sediment management.
In addition, construction of project-related buildings and supporting facilities continues. Several structures are nearing completion, while work on the remaining buildings is progressing steadily.
Vital project for Sindh’s agriculture
The Sukkur Barrage remains one of Pakistan’s most important irrigation structures. It supplies water to millions of acres of agricultural land across Sindh.
According to the documents, the rehabilitation project will strengthen water regulation, improve the barrage’s structural resilience and ensure reliable irrigation supplies for the province’s agriculture sector for decades to come.
