In view of possible flooding across Sindh, the provincial government has taken an emergency step by cancelling all leaves of officers and staff of the Agriculture Department. Chief Secretary Sindh convened a second emergency meeting within 24 hours to review preparations in anticipation of a potential high flood.
According to the spokesperson, a rain emergency cell has been established at the office of the Director General of Agriculture in Hyderabad to ensure a timely response in case of emergencies. Sindh Agriculture Minister Sardar Bux Maher directed that all machinery and bulldozers must remain ready for immediate deployment. He added that farmers will be able to reach out for assistance in emergencies.
Officials said directors and deputy directors have been appointed as focal persons in 30 districts to deal with the flood situation effectively. Emergency centers have been set up across all districts and tehsil levels, while a 24/7 rain emergency control room has been established in Hyderabad to guide farmers.
The spokesperson of the Agriculture Department confirmed that the Director General of Agriculture Extension Sindh will supervise the implementation of the emergency plan. The minister instructed all officers to remain on high alert within their respective districts and maintain direct contact with farmers. Daily reports will be submitted to Agriculture Secretary Muhammad Zaman Narejo.
Sardar Bux Maher stated that immediate relief, such as seeds, fertilizers, and agricultural tools, will be provided to affected farmers. A dedicated helpline number (0311-1164611) has also been activated to assist them.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister of Sindh has assigned ministers to monitor both the left and right banks of the rivers. During the review meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary, the health and livestock departments were directed to form mobile teams immediately to tackle any emergency.
Briefing the meeting, the Secretary of Irrigation said that an inflow of 700,000 to 800,000 cusecs is expected at Panjnad Barrage, and staff have already been deployed along the river embankments. The Chief Secretary instructed that people wishing to relocate from riverine areas to safer zones should be provided with boat facilities.
He further emphasized ensuring the availability of anti-venom for snakebites and rabies vaccination. On-site vaccination points will be set up, and mobile health teams will also be mobilized.
