Excerpt: This post answers the questions “What is the other name of Kotri Barrage? What is another name for Kotri Barrage?”
Water management is a crucial aspect of sustaining agriculture, industry, and daily life in any region. Barrages and dams play an essential role in controlling and distributing water from rivers to the areas that need it the most. One such vital structure in Pakistan is the Kotri Barrage. In this blog post, we will explore the other name of the Kotri Barrage and provide a detailed note on its significance, construction, and impact on the region.
What is the other name of Kotri Barrage?
The Kotri Barrage is also known as the Ghulam Muhammad Barrage. This alternate name honors Ghulam Muhammad, the Governor-General of Pakistan at the time of the barrage’s construction. The dual naming reflects both the geographical location and the historical significance of the structure.
The Kotri Barrage: An Overview
Historical Background
The construction of the Kotri Barrage, or Ghulam Muhammad Barrage, was initiated in the early 1950s to address the water management needs of the Sindh province. The project was part of Pakistan’s broader efforts to develop its irrigation infrastructure and support agricultural growth. The barrage was officially inaugurated in 1955 by Governor-General Ghulam Muhammad, marking a significant milestone in the country’s development.
Location and Structure
The Kotri Barrage is situated on the Indus River near the city of Kotri in the Sindh province of Pakistan. The strategic location of the barrage allows it to control the flow of water from the Indus River and distribute it to the surrounding agricultural areas. The structure spans approximately 915 meters (3,002 feet) in length and consists of multiple gates that can be adjusted to regulate the water flow.
Purpose and Function
The primary purpose of the Kotri Barrage is to divert water from the Indus River into a network of canals that irrigate the fertile lands of Sindh. The barrage supports several major canals, including the Kalri Baghar Feeder, the Pinyari Feeder, and the Fuleli Canal. These canals play a vital role in providing water for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, rice, sugarcane, and cotton.
Additionally, the Kotri Barrage helps in flood control by regulating the flow of the Indus River during the monsoon season. By controlling the water levels, the barrage mitigates the risk of flooding in the surrounding areas, protecting both agricultural lands and local communities.
Technical Specifications
The Kotri Barrage is an impressive engineering marvel, designed to withstand the immense pressure of the Indus River’s flow. The barrage is equipped with 44 gates, each measuring 18 meters (60 feet) in width. These gates can be raised or lowered to control the flow of water, ensuring a consistent supply for irrigation and other purposes.
The barrage has a discharge capacity of approximately 875,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs), making it one of the largest barrages on the Indus River. The structure’s design and construction reflect the advanced engineering techniques employed to ensure its stability and functionality.
Impact on Local Communities
The Kotri Barrage has had a profound impact on the lives of the people living in its vicinity. The availability of water for irrigation has led to increased agricultural production, creating employment opportunities and contributing to the overall economic development of the region. The barrage has also helped stabilize the water supply, ensuring that local communities have access to clean drinking water and sufficient resources for their daily needs.
Environmental Significance
The Kotri Barrage plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region. By regulating the flow of the Indus River, the barrage helps sustain the habitats of various species of flora and fauna. The controlled water flow also supports the health of wetlands and other natural ecosystems, contributing to the overall environmental well-being of the area.
In conclusion, the Kotri Barrage, also known as the Ghulam Muhammad Barrage, is a vital piece of infrastructure that has significantly contributed to the development and prosperity of the Sindh province in Pakistan. The barrage’s strategic location on the Indus River, coupled with its advanced engineering design, allows it to effectively manage water resources for irrigation, flood control, and environmental sustainability. Understanding the significance of the Kotri Barrage helps us appreciate the critical role of water management in supporting agricultural growth and improving the quality of life for local communities.
Source: To ensure the accuracy and authenticity of the information provided, the following sources were referenced:
- Kotri Barrage – Wikipedia
