Karachi, September 8, 2025 – Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Murad Ali Shah has announced that the peak of the flood in the Indus River is now expected to reach Guddu Barrage on September 9, with water flows anticipated to cross 800,000 cusecs.
He stated that authorities have stepped up preparations and accelerated evacuation efforts to protect vulnerable populations living along the riverbanks.
Speaking at the Rain & Emergency Monitoring Cell in Karachi, the CM was joined by provincial ministers, the chief secretary, and other senior officials. Murad Shah explained that commissioners and deputy commissioners have issued urgent notices across katcha (riverine) areas, advising residents to vacate their homes immediately. Provincial ministers are also supervising operations on both the left and right banks of the Indus River to ensure evacuations run smoothly.
Large-Scale Evacuations Underway
According to the CM, nearly 324,000 people are at risk of displacement. Already, around 128,000 individuals have evacuated their homes, though many have preferred to move to embankments rather than relief camps. The government has deployed healthcare teams, treating more than 40,000 patients, while nearly 0.9 million livestock have been vaccinated to minimize the risk of disease outbreaks.
Infrastructure and Relief Efforts
Murad highlighted that efforts to manage drainage through the Left Bank Outfall Drain (LBOD) have been critical in reducing the impact of floodwaters. Additional bridges on the Indus Highway are being built to ensure mobility and support rescue operations. He recalled that Sindh successfully handled similar flood challenges in 2015, demonstrating the province’s resilience.
The CM emphasized that all relief and healthcare camps are geo-tagged, with boats, supplies, and medical staff positioned in advance. “Our preparations are comprehensive. Rainfall in Sindh is manageable, and while rainfall in the Koh-e-Suleman range contributes to rising river levels, it is not severe enough to trigger immediate disaster. Still, we remain cautious,” he said.
Comparative Situation in Punjab
The CM noted that Punjab is currently experiencing more severe flooding compared to Sindh. He pointed out that reports of 40 villages submerged in Sehwan actually refer to riverine settlements that are always exposed during flood peaks. He stressed that Sindh’s situation remains under control but acknowledged the heavy toll in Punjab. “Our health minister has already offered medical assistance to Punjab, as that is where the most pressing needs exist right now,” he remarked.
Call for Unity and Public Cooperation
Murad Shah appealed for national solidarity during this crisis, drawing parallels to moments of unity during past challenges. He urged the public not to be misled by misinformation and to cooperate fully with government directives. “The Indus River is a lifeline, but during floods, it tests our preparedness and resilience. Our collective response is what matters most,” he added.
The CM clarified that Sindh is not currently seeking federal financial assistance, though coordination with Islamabad remains ongoing. He assured that urban flooding in Karachi has been managed effectively, with rainwater cleared within hours after the recent downpour.
In conclusion, Murad reiterated that while the Indus River is expected to reach flood peak at Guddu Barrage on September 9, Sindh is well-prepared to mitigate risks. He also addressed unrelated political matters but stressed that the immediate focus must remain on safeguarding lives and property along the mighty river.