Trimmu Barrage

Trimu Barrage is located about 25 km from Jhang Sadar, Jhang District, Punjab, Pakistan. It is located just below the confluence point of the Chenab and Jhelum Rivers. The barrage was built by British engineers in 1938-39 as part of the Haveli Bahadur Shah Power Plant.   It falls in semi semi-arid zone with the desert on its right and the Rechna Doab on its left. And it feeds the Rangpur Canal, Trimmu-Sidhnai Link Canal, and Haveli Canal. It is a favourite resort for tourists and picnickers especilly on a trip by motor launch. Fish are also abundant at the headworks. Rahu, Mergala, etc., are some of the important fish found there.

Ecological & Wildlife Significance

Birdlife & Wetland Habitat: Studies show Trimmu Barrage is an important site for avian diversity. Over a year (March 2021–Feb 2022), researchers recorded ~67 species of birds in Jhang District across habitats including Trimmu Barrage. Of these, many are migratory or winter visitors. Aquatic plants and riverine vegetation contribute to its ecological richness. The habitat includes floating and rooted aquatic plants, trees along riverbanks, etc.

Fish & Fisheries: There are fish species common to the local river / canal systems; fishing is a local livelihood. Also, proposals for biodiversity hatcheries suggest focus on conserving and enhancing fisheries.

Recent Developments & Infrastructure Upgrades

Rehabilitation & Modernization

Trimmu Barrage has undergone upgrades to its gates and related structures to increase flood-resilience and improve irrigation reliability. According to SMEC an Australian based-firm, the rehabilitation has restored reliable irrigation to large areas (≈ 1 million hectares) through the canals linked with Trimmu, benefiting many farming communities.

Flood Alerts & Flow Records

The Barrage has been in the news for very high flood flows, especially during monsoon peaks. For example, in August-September 2025, flows of 700,000-800,000 cusecs were forecasted or observed.