KARACHI — The Sindh government has decided to declare Tharparkar a calamity-hit district after severe drought-like conditions spread across all seven talukas, destroying or rendering unproductive up to 90 percent of crops, officials said.
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah ordered immediate emergency measures, with particular emphasis on drinking water supplies, agricultural losses and the impact on livestock, according to a statement issued after a high-level meeting in Karachi.
Rainfall Shortfall Withers Harvests
Officials briefed the chief minister that all seven talukas of the district are experiencing drought-like conditions, with between 85 and 90 percent of crops either destroyed or rendered unproductive. The Agriculture Extension Department estimated overall crop losses at approximately 90 percent.
Uneven and insufficient rainfall was identified as a major factor behind the damage. Crops and natural grass dried up before reaching maturity because of irregular rainfall patterns, aggravating hardship for communities dependent on agriculture and livestock.
Rainfall figures presented at the meeting underlined the scale of the problem. In September 2026, precipitation across Tharparkar’s seven talukas ranged from just one millimetre to 36 millimetres, leaving large areas struggling with inadequate water supplies.
Emergency Water Measures Ordered
Following the briefing, Murad Ali Shah directed relevant departments to ensure an uninterrupted supply of drinking water to residents of the drought-affected district.
- Immediate repair and restoration of inactive reverse osmosis (RO) plants to expand access to safe drinking water.
- Restoration of all existing water supply sources without delay.
- A feasibility study, assigned to the chief secretary, on laying a water pipeline from Naukot to Mithi to strengthen long-term supplies.
The chief minister stressed the need for both immediate intervention and longer-term arrangements to address the district’s recurring water challenges. The proposed pipeline forms part of broader efforts to improve water access in Tharparkar, where limited rainfall and the drying up of natural resources have intensified pressure on existing supplies.
Livestock Relief Under Review
The impact of the drought on livestock also featured prominently at the meeting, with the chief minister seeking recommendations on measures to support animals affected by the deteriorating conditions. The drying up of natural grass before maturity has added to the difficulties facing livestock owners.
Murad Ali Shah instructed officials to assess what assistance could be provided to protect livestock and help communities coping with the consequences of prolonged dry conditions. He also ordered continuous monitoring of relief operations across drought-affected areas to ensure emergency measures are implemented effectively and reach those in need.
The chief minister said the Sindh government would not leave the people of Tharparkar alone in the face of the crisis and would provide every possible assistance to affected communities.
