Sindh Govt Launches Ruthless Operation in Katcha Region

Strengthening Security and Addressing Water Challenges in Sindh

The Sindh Chief Minister, Syed Murad Ali Shah, convened a high-level meeting to address critical issues in the Kachha areas of Larkana and Sukkur divisions, as well as pressing water supply challenges in Karachi. The meeting brought together key officials from various security and administrative departments, including the Corps Commander Karachi, Lieutenant General Owais Dastgir, Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah, Home Minister Zia Ul Hasan Lanjhar, and representatives from multiple law enforcement agencies.

Combating Crime in the Kachha Areas

The Chief Minister outlined a clear offensive strategy to combat crime in the Kachha regions, emphasizing the need for swift and decisive action against dacoits. He directed the police to confront these criminals, force them to surrender, and disarm them. The operation, which began in 2024, has seen significant progress, with 729 intelligence-based operations and 261 search and sweep operations conducted since October 2024. Despite challenges such as inaccessibility, innovative technology has helped overcome these obstacles, enabling law enforcement agencies to establish fortified bases and dismantle criminal hideouts.

From January 2024 to August 15, a total of 149 dacoits were neutralized, with notable numbers in Sukkur, Ghotki, Kashmore, and Shikarpur. Additionally, 582 dacoits were arrested during this period. The Chief Minister stressed the importance of maintaining peace and security in the area, warning that kidnappings for ransom would not be tolerated. He also assured that those who surrendered their weapons would receive leniency.

Enhancing Coordination and Oversight

To ensure the continued success of these operations, the Chief Minister established a high-level monitoring committee, headed by the Home Minister, to oversee the progress of the crackdown. An additional committee was formed to make decisions and ensure effective implementation. The government also emphasized the need for greater coordination among all law enforcement agencies operating in the Kachha regions.

Addressing Water Supply Issues in Karachi

In addition to security concerns, the meeting addressed the pressing water supply challenges in Karachi. The discussion highlighted several issues stemming from the city's aging infrastructure, including low water pressure, frequent bursts, and leakages. These problems have facilitated illegal tapping of water supplies, with criminal syndicates exploiting the system by filling unauthorized tankers and selling unfiltered water at inflated prices.

The water board raised concerns about the lack of real-time flow and pressure monitoring, delays in enforcement, and inadequate accountability. Unbilled or under-billed connections persist due to insufficient digitalization and GIS mapping, making certain areas vulnerable to theft. In response, the water board has initiated measures to crack down on illegal connections and hydrants, while a dedicated police station for water-related issues is being set up.

Legal Reforms and Infrastructure Improvements

The meeting decided to expedite the establishment of the KWandSC Tribunal and implement legal reforms to enforce penalties on water theft and recover dues effectively. A partnership with Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) was deemed necessary to tackle the scale of water theft and illegal hydrants. Initiatives such as water metering, SCADA systems, tax surveys, and enhanced GIS and asset management are also being implemented.

Looking ahead, the government plans to augment water sources, rehabilitate infrastructure, and strengthen institutions to ensure a reliable and secure water supply for the residents of Karachi. The Chief Minister emphasized that peaceful residents of the Kachha areas deserve security and protection, with safeguarding lives and property remaining a top priority.

Additional Measures for Security

To support the crackdown on dacoits, internet services will be suspended for an extended period in the Kachha regions, and all social media accounts used by criminals will be blocked. The locations of mobile towers to be shut down were identified and shared during the meeting. The police, Rangers, and other agencies were commended for their excellent work in the ongoing operations, highlighting the importance of sustained efforts to restore peace and order in the region.