The long-standing water supply challenges at Sindh University will be comprehensively resolved following the approval of a grand drinking water project worth approximately 4.87 billion rupees. The project was announced today by Sindh Minister for Public Health Engineering, Muhammad Saleem Baloch, aiming to ensure a continuous supply of clean and safe drinking water for the institution, guaranteeing supply until 2038.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday at the Vice Chancellor’s office, the Minister stated that this extensive project includes the improvement, expansion, and new construction of a purification system using simple sand filtration technology. This system is designed to serve the university’s population of 77,165 people, providing approximately 2,546,445 gallons of water daily to academic departments, student hostels, and residential areas. Present at the briefing were Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Fateh Muhammad Mari, Dr. Ikram Ajan, Secretary for Public Health Engineering Sohail Ahmed Qureshi, and other officials.
Highlighting the engineering aspects, Mr. Baloch explained that the project involves the construction of multiple pump stations, installation of powerful machinery, and laying of extensive pipelines. A 1,000 running feet pipeline with a 24-inch diameter will connect the KB feeder to the storage tanks, while a 14,000 running feet main line will deliver water to the university’s central waterworks.
Further infrastructural improvements include the installation of pumping machines with various capacities of 75, 130, and 100 BHP at different locations to ensure uninterrupted flow. Additionally, two extensive storage reservoirs and two clear water tanks are planned for construction.
The comprehensive plan incorporates five robust concrete filter beds for water purification through simple sand methods, along with a modern distribution network comprising pipelines of varying measurements.
Detailed supporting facilities for the project include staff accommodation, underground water wells, essential international connections, 400,000 square feet of brick flooring, a dedicated water purification room, and a disinfection system.
Furthermore, the project will facilitate the construction of railway and road crossings, repair existing water storage facilities, build a 4,180 feet long protective wall, and install 22 solar-powered street lights and guidance boards.
The Minister termed the project a significant step towards strengthening the university’s infrastructure and resolving persistent water issues. He highlighted the government’s firm commitment to providing quality and sustainable facilities in educational institutions.
Officials from the Public Health Engineering Department confirmed that the entire project is scheduled to be completed within two years under their direct supervision. This rapid completion is expected to significantly improve the regularity and quality of water supply across the university campus.