World Bank Supports Flood Emergency & Rehabilitation Efforts in Manchar Lake

World Bank Team Visits Aral Regulator in Manchar Lake to Review Flood Emergency and Rehabilitation Progress

The World Bank’s support mission, comprising a team of experts, visited the site of the Aral regulator in Manchar Lake to assess the progress made in the ongoing Flood Emergency and Rehabilitation work. In a statement issued by the Spokesperson of the Sindh Flood Emergency Rehabilitation Project, it was revealed that the water discharge from the Aral Regulator would be increased to 52,000 cusecs from 12,000 cusecs. This measure aims to protect the local population from floods and is part of the Rehabilitation program funded by the World Bank.

Water Discharge Increased to 52,000 Cusecs from 12,000 Cusecs for Flood Mitigation

To ensure a smoother flow of water and alleviate pressure on the waterway banks, the number of gates for water discharge has been increased from 3 to 14. Additionally, the bund, which acts as a barrier, has been raised by six feet. These enhancements are crucial for mitigating the effects of high-level floods in the area.

Bund Raised by Six Feet to Counter High-Level Flood Effects

During the visit, the World Bank team also engaged in an interactive session with representatives of the Civil Society Group at Sehwan. The aim was to gather suggestions and strengthen community ownership of the rehabilitation efforts, as well as maximize their benefits. In response to a request from the Civil Society Group, the World Bank committed to activating 39 Reverse Osmosis plants that had become dysfunctional due to last year’s high-level floods. This initiative will ensure a safe drinking water supply for the affected communities.

(Also Read: World Bank Approves $300 Million in Additional Funding for Lebanon’s Social Safety Net Project)

World Bank to Launch Livelihood Program for Flood-Affected Communities

In the concluding remarks, the head of the World Bank mission announced plans to launch a livelihood program specifically designed for the flood affectees. The program will focus on empowering women and poverty alleviation, aiming to improve the living conditions and economic prospects of the affected communities. Moreover, the head of the mission emphasized the importance of reducing flood risks in the face of climate change, highlighting the need for comprehensive water management strategies.

Through its ongoing support and collaborative efforts, the World Bank is playing a vital role in the rehabilitation and recovery of flood-affected areas, helping communities rebuild and safeguard themselves against future disasters.