Guddu Barrage

Guddu Barrage is located on the Indus River in the Kashmore District, Sindh, Pakistan. The purpose of this barrage is for irrigation, flood control, water regulation, and river navigation. And also to supply cold water to the Guddu Thermal Power Plant. It provides irrigation to more than 1 million hectares of Sindh and Balochistan through several canals (Ghotki Feeder, Rainee, Begari Sindh Feeder, Desert Pat Feeder).

Engineering & Agriculture

As a large hydraulic structure, it plays a critical role in regulating the Indus River’s flow, especially during monsoon floods and dry seasons. It supports extensive agriculture in otherwise arid/semi-arid regions by channeling water through its network of canals. This transforms local livelihoods in Kashmore, Jacobabad, Sukkur, and neighbouring districts.

Environment & Wildlife

The Indus River Dolphin and other aquatic life are found in and around the stretch of river between Guddu and Sukkur. This area is part of an Indus Dolphin Game Reserve / Indus Dolphin Reserve, which is protected.

Challenges & Rehabilitation

Many parts of the barrage infrastructure (gates, electrical/mechanical components) are aged and in need of repair or replacement. Because of corrosion, malfunctioning hoist gear, etc., there is a risk if not properly maintained. A rehabilitation project is underway or planned, supported by the World Bank, aiming to replace main barrage steel gates, canal head regulator gates, hoist gears, and update the electrical systems.