In the coastal area of Mirpur Sakro in Thatta district, farmers took to the streets today against the severe water shortage that has crippled their communities. The protesters expressed their distress over the unavailability of drinking water by chanting “Give us drinking water” and highlighted the mismanagement at Kotri Barrage, which they claim is exacerbating the crisis.
For the past six months, water has not reached the Kardo Branch, a vital waterway for thousands of acres of agricultural lands in UC Khaganna, Dhabo, and Kakrand. This situation has led to the destruction of agriculture and a severe shortage of drinking water for residents and livestock. This protest, led by local figures like Haji Ismail Kalmati and Ashraf Samoon, took place at 40 RD of Kardo Branch, where participants raised their grievances against the irrigation department.
The protesters allege that the flow of water in Kardo Branch and Molipoto Minor has been deliberately obstructed by an illegal barrier, allegedly installed at RD 14 of Kardo Branch with the support of influential individuals. This barrier has prevented water from reaching the remote parts of the branch.
The situation is becoming unbearable as saline seawater is infiltrating inland and contaminating local boreholes, forcing villagers to travel 5 to 8 kilometers for drinking water. The destruction of crops is also placing a severe economic burden on the community.
The affected farmers and residents are demanding authorities to immediately restore the water supply to Kardo Branch and Molipoto Minor to prevent further devastation and ensure the survival of their communities.