The World Bank has downgraded the implementation and development ratings of Pakistan’s Sindh Barrages Improvement Project, citing slower-than-expected progress in barrage operations and institutional capacity despite significant advances in rehabilitation work.
The $314.93 million project’s development objective and implementation progress ratings have both been revised from “Satisfactory” to “Moderately Satisfactory.” Its overall risk rating remains “Substantial.” About 82.25 percent of the project’s funds have been disbursed so far.
The project seeks to strengthen the Sindh Irrigation Department’s capacity to operate and maintain barrages while improving the safety and reliability of the Guddu and Sukkur barrages.
According to the World Bank, major rehabilitation works at both barrages remain on track for completion in the first half of 2027, despite challenges such as a cofferdam breach at Sukkur Barrage in March 2026.
Rehabilitation and modernization work had reached 84 percent by July 2026, compared with the ultimate target of 100 percent by June 2028. So far, 125 gates have been replaced, including 25 Guddu canal gates, 56 Guddu main barrage gates and 44 Sukkur main barrage gates.
However, progress on improving operations and institutional capacity has been slower than anticipated. The operation and maintenance performance scorecard increased only slightly, from 40 in December 2025 to 44 in July 2026, against a target of 90 by June 2028.
The World Bank also highlighted delays in sediment testing, calibration of canal head regulators and the award of a performance-based maintenance contract. While technical studies for long-term flood and sediment management at Sukkur Barrage have been completed, their recommendations have yet to be put into operation.
Once rehabilitation is completed, the project is expected to increase the flood passage capacity of the Sukkur and Guddu barrages from 900,000 cusecs to 1.2 million cusecs.
The project is expected to benefit around five million people, with its revised closing date set for June 30, 2028.
