KARACHI: The Sindh government has decided to officially declare Tharparkar a calamity-hit district amid drought-like conditions across the region.
The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, who also directed the authorities to take immediate measures to address the situation in Tharparkar.
The briefing informed the chief minister that all seven talukas of Tharparkar were facing drought-like conditions, with between 85% and 90% of crops either destroyed or rendered unproductive.
According to the briefing, the agriculture extension department estimated crop losses at around 90%, while uneven rainfall had caused crops and natural grass to dry up before reaching maturity.
The chief minister was told that rainfall recorded across Tharparkar’s seven talukas in September 2026 ranged from just one millimetre to 36 millimetres.
CM Murad directed the authorities to ensure the provision of drinking water to the people of Tharparkar and ordered the immediate repair and restoration of inactive reverse osmosis plants.
He also directed that all existing sources of water supply be restored without delay.
The chief minister instructed the chief secretary to examine the feasibility of laying a water pipeline from Naukot to Mithi and undertake long-term planning for water supply to the area.
He further sought recommendations on measures that could be taken to support livestock affected by the drought.
CM Murad directed continuous monitoring of relief measures in drought-affected areas, saying the Sindh government would not leave the affected people of Tharparkar alone and would provide every possible assistance.
