Project Progress and Key Details
The Sukkur Barrage rehabilitation and modernization project, valued at Rs23.44 billion, has reached 58 percent physical progress and is on track for completion by February 2027. According to official documents obtained by Wealth Pakistan, the project has also achieved 49 percent financial progress. The initiative aims to strengthen Sindh's irrigation network and enhance the long-term reliability of one of Pakistan's most critical water infrastructure assets.
Contract and Execution
The Sukkur Barrage Improvement Project (SBIP/S1) contract is being executed by a joint venture of China Road and Bridge Corporation and Hubei Shuizong Water Resources and Hydropower Construction Co. Ltd. The original contract value of Rs17.07 billion was revised to Rs23.44 billion following the approval of variation orders. The Letter of Acceptance was issued on August 19, 2022, with the contract agreement signed on October 24, 2022. Construction commenced on February 24, 2023, with a contract period of 1,460 days, excluding the 265-day Defects Notification Period.
Key Construction Activities
Substantial progress has been reported on key components. Cofferdam construction is underway in multiple phases, covering 36 barrage gates in the river section and eight gates in the tail channel. Mechanical and electrical rehabilitation works involving 44 gates and hoists are also progressing. Civil engineering activities include repairs and strengthening of 44 barrage bays, foundations, and associated structures to improve operational safety and efficiency.
Dredging and Facilities
Dredging works are being carried out in the left and right pockets, approach channel, and tail channel to enhance water flow and sediment management. Construction of project-related buildings and facilities is continuing, with work on some structures nearing completion while limited activities remain on designated buildings.
Importance for Sindh Agriculture
The Sukkur Barrage is a critical component of Pakistan's irrigation system, serving millions of acres of agricultural land across Sindh. The ongoing rehabilitation will contribute significantly to enhancing water regulation, improving structural resilience, and ensuring uninterrupted water supplies to the province's agriculture sector for decades to come, according to the report.
