100% found this document useful (1 vote)
1K views59 pages

PESA District Profile Umerkot Sindh Pakistan

The document provides information about Umarkot district in Sindh province of Pakistan. It discusses the disaster history of the district, key hazards, vulnerabilities and capacities. It also provides contact details for coordination during emergencies. The purpose is to help stakeholders in disaster preparedness and response.

Uploaded by

علی احمد
Copyright
© Public Domain
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
100% found this document useful (1 vote)
1K views59 pages

PESA District Profile Umerkot Sindh Pakistan

The document provides information about Umarkot district in Sindh province of Pakistan. It discusses the disaster history of the district, key hazards, vulnerabilities and capacities. It also provides contact details for coordination during emergencies. The purpose is to help stakeholders in disaster preparedness and response.

Uploaded by

علی احمد
Copyright
© Public Domain
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 59

Umarkot Fort

District Umarkot, Sindh


“Disaster risk reduction has been a part of USAID’s work for decades. ……..we strive to do so
in ways that better assess the threat of hazards, reduce losses, and ultimately protect and save
more people during the next disaster.”
Kasey Channell,
Acting Director of the Disaster Response and Mitigation Division of USAID’s
Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA)

PAKISTAN EMERGENCY
SITUATIONAL
ANALYSIS

District Umerkot
June 2014

“Disasters can be seen as often as predictable events, requiring forward planning which is
integrated in to broader development programs.”
Helen Clark, UNDP Administrator, Bureau of Crisis Preven on and Recovery. Annual Report 2011
Disclaimer
iMMAP Pakistan is pleased to publish this district profile. The purpose of this profile is to promote public
awareness, welfare, and safety while providing community and other related stakeholders, access to vital
information for enhancing their disaster mitigation and response efforts.

While iMMAP team has tried its best to provide proper source of information and ensure consistency in
analyses within the given time limits; iMMAP shall not be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may be
encountered. In any situation where the Official Public Records differs from the information provided in
this district profile, the Official Public Records should take as precedence.

iMMAP disclaims any responsibility and makes no representations or warranties as to the quality, accuracy,
content, or completeness of any information contained in this report. Final assessment of accuracy and
reliability of information is the responsibility of the user.

iMMAP shall not be liable for damages of any nature whatsoever resulting from the use or misuse of
information contained in this report. The user agrees to indemnify and hold harmless iMMAP and anyone
involved in storing, retrieving, or displaying this information for any damage of any type that may be
caused by using this information.

The terms used and the maps presented in this profile do not imply the expression of any opinion
whatsoever on the part of iMMAP and USAID concerning the legal status and the area of any administrative
unit or its authorities.

NOTE:
This district profile is a live document and it will continue to improve based on its users feedback and upon
availability of more accurate and authenticated sources as and when they become available. It’s not always
possible to publish these profiles in hardcopy format; however iMMAP will ensure that these updates are
made available on DRR Pakistan Information Management Portal. For updated version of following profile,
please visit www.drrpakistan.pk/pesa.

Any questions/ comments concerning information presented in this report can be addressed to:

iMMAP Pakistan Services Desk


H.# 25, College Road, F-7/2, Islamabad, Pakistan
Tel: +92.51.835.0755
eMail: [email protected]
Credits
iMMAP has been providing Information Management [IM] and Disaster Risk Reduction [DRR] capacity
building services in Pakistan since 2010. Based on our lessons learned, while interacting with thousands of
humanitarian partners and government officials, both national and international; we believe that the
following are 7 basic requirements to improve Disaster Response and Management life cycle:

1. Information Management [IM] is a must for effective disaster response and monitoring;
2. Coordination among all stakeholders [both national and international] is of utmost importance to
reduce redundancy and duplication in such critical situations – going beyond clusters and getting
connected with local community representatives;
3. Appropriate logistic arrangements are critical for humanitarian relief and mitigation. However, it
must be born in mind that logistic requirements drastically vary from disaster to disaster, based
on its time, geography, and nature;
4. Disasters and Development are intimately connected. Its important that all disaster responders
are aware of the long term implications of their actions of relief and early recovery;
5. It is important that we, as disaster responders, take full responsibility of self-accountability and
transparency not only to the satisfaction of the government officials but the general public as
well. Not-for-profit sector must be driven by a cause!
6. National, Regional, and International Public/ Private Partnerships [PPP] is the only way to
implement sustainable Disaster Risk Management [DRM] measures;
7. Media must be integrated in our response efforts. This vastly helps to disseminate the right
information, minimize duplication of efforts, and make all stakeholders aware of your
organization’s input/activities.

Pakistan Emergency Situation Analysis [PESA] is a series of District Profiles (DP), which is developed with
the above-mentioned 7 basic requirements in focus. PESA DPs are one of the most effective iMMAP IM
services in Pakistan, which directly contribute to thousands of humanitarian relief providers’ effective
emergency response and disaster management.

I can not conclude this note without thanking iMMAP Pakistan team that has contributed tirelessly, under
extreme emergency pressure, to consistently deliver their best on time, during the 2010, 2011, 2012, and
2013 floods, 2013 earthquake in Balochistan, and the most recent drought emergency in Tharparkar,
Sindh during 2014.

I particularly wish to express my great appreciation and thanks to my mentors, colleagues, and friends
Mr. Fayyaz Ali Khan and Ms. Kathrin Lauer for their continuous feedback and reflection on the profiles
quality. At many times, I parked their feedback, due to the time constraints of the service we have been
trying to deliver. However, their feedback have always been valued and appreciated. Mr. Naeem Ahmad,
being the M&E professional, has proven himself to be a gem for iMMAP. I also appreciate the efforts of
other staff members who have been with us in the past and many new faces that joined iMMAP recently
for their work with an exceptional dedication. This includes: Farooq Laghari, Qassim Jan, Sumbal Kazmi,
Salman Mulk, Zohaib Fazal, Hadya Ali, Dr. Ahmad Ali Malik, Fatima Gillani, Fatima Ali, Laraib Malik,
Zeeshan Ahmad, Sarfaraz Meher Din, Muhammad Javed Iqbal, Muneeb Muzamil, Mahwish Muzamil,
Tariq Sardar, Wajid Ali, and last but not the least Nouman Ali, our amazingly skilled graphic designer.

Mehdi Bokhari
PESA Project Director
Foreword

Timely response to a disaster may save precious human lives and reduce economic costs. However,
natural disasters, typically, occur unexpectedly. Consequently, in most cases, the afflicted population
lacks the necessary tools and capacity to handle such tragic occurrences and the devastation is manifold
more than it should be.

“Before the next disaster hits, now is the time to recommit to making smart investments that save lives,
property, and money. Whether at home or abroad, measures to improve response, increase disaster
management capacity, plan and prepare, can have dramatic dividends.” (Kasey Channell: Acting Director
of the Disaster Response Team for USAID’s Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance.) It is so true, as
preparation for unexpected calamities is a tough task. However, if certain precautions are taken, they
might lessen the overall damage. This series of district profiles, prepared by iMMAP and funded by USAID,
is one such effort to enhance Government of Pakistan, humanitarian organizations and all other
stakeholders’ efforts towards rapid needs assessment, disaster response and mitigation.

These profiles are divided into four sections namely background information, disaster history and its
impact, hazard vulnerability and capacity assessment (HVCA) and coordination and support
services.Background information provides an overview of history, geography, culture, and communication
infrastructure. It also provides detailed analyses of demography, livelihood, food security, health and
education. The second section provides detailed history of disasters in the district; information about
losses and damages; and gap analyses of above mentioned sectors. HVCA section provides detailed
analyses of district hazards, vulnerabilities and capacities that exist in the local community. Coordination
and support services section gives information on whom to contact in emergency/disaster situations. The
motivation stems from the idea that at the time of disaster all the stakeholders in general and the donors
and disaster managers in particular can have a fair idea of what to expect and how to prepare for. It is
expected that this contribution of USAID and iMMAP would lead to a well-coordinated and coherent
response by different humanitarian organizations on managing similar disasters.

Having stated the above, it is very candidly admitted that these profiles are by no means exhaustive and
in fact require a lot more input to qualify these as good enough documents for disaster preparedness.
However, these are live documents and would be improved upon as and when required. There appears to
be an element of repetition, which is owed to the fact that while these documents depict the district
profiles in normal circumstances, the same then provide a detail account of the impact of the 2010/2011
floods, the assistance provided by the government and the humanitarian organizations and the remaining
gaps. Due to time and resources constraints, the information provided in these profiles is mainly base on
secondary source data. Depending on the end users’ response and funding availability, this exercise
would be extended to other districts of the country.

Major (Retd) Tahir Iqbal


iMMAP Pakistan
Chairman
Table of Contents
District at a Glance ...................................................................................................................... i
Abbreviations ............................................................................................................................ iii
1 Background Information ................................................................................ 1
1.1. Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 1
1.1.1. History ...................................................................................................................... 1
1.1.2. Geography ................................................................................................................ 1
1.1.3. Culture (Ethnicity, Religion and Politics) .................................................................. 2
1.1.4. Administrative Division ............................................................................................ 3
1.1.5. Road Network Infrastructure ................................................................................... 4
1.1.6. Irrigation ................................................................................................................... 4
1.1.7. Solid Waste Management ........................................................................................ 8
1.2. Demography .................................................................................................................... 9
1.2.1. Population Characteristics........................................................................................ 9
1.2.2. Population Growth Pattern .................................................................................... 10
1.2.3. Population Distribution by Age and Gender .......................................................... 10
1.2.4. Dependent Population ........................................................................................... 10
1.3. Livelihood....................................................................................................................... 13
1.3.1. Main Sources of Livelihood/Income....................................................................... 13
1.3.2. Agriculture .............................................................................................................. 14
1.3.3. Industry................................................................................................................... 15
1.3.4. Livestock ................................................................................................................. 15
1.4. Food Security ................................................................................................................. 16
1.4.1. Availability .............................................................................................................. 16
1.4.2. Access ..................................................................................................................... 17
1.4.3. Utilization ............................................................................................................... 17
1.5. Health ............................................................................................................................ 19
1.5.1. Health Facilities ...................................................................................................... 19
1.5.2. Immunization ......................................................................................................... 20
1.6. Education ....................................................................................................................... 22
1.6.1. Highlights ................................................................................................................ 22
1.6.2. District School Enrolment Ratio ............................................................................. 22
1.6.3. Gender and Level Wise Detail ................................................................................ 23
2 Disaster History ............................................................................................ 26
2.1. District Disaster History ................................................................................................. 26
2.1.1. Disaster History ...................................................................................................... 26
2.1.2. Impact of Disaster history on Demography ........................................................... 29
2.1.3. Impact of Disaster on Livelihood & Agriculture ..................................................... 29
2.1.4. Analysis of Food Security Situation ........................................................................ 30
2.1.5. Impact of Disaster on Health .................................................................................. 31
2.1.6. Impact of Disaster on Education ............................................................................ 31
2.1.7. Drought 2013-14 .................................................................................................... 31
3 Hazard Vulnerability and Capacity Analysis .................................................. 34
3.1. HVCA Analysis ................................................................................................................ 34
3.1.1. Hazard..................................................................................................................... 34
3.1.2. Vulnerability ........................................................................................................... 35
3.1.3. Capacity .................................................................................................................. 38
4 Sectoral DRR Mitigation Measures ............................................................... 40
4.1.1. Education ................................................................................................................ 40
4.1.2. Infrastructure ......................................................................................................... 40
4.1.3. Health ..................................................................................................................... 41
4.1.4. Livelihood ............................................................................................................... 41
4.1.5. Food ........................................................................................................................ 42
4.1.6. Wash ....................................................................................................................... 42
4.1.7. Government and Humanitarian Sector .................................................................. 42
5 Coordination and Support Services .............................................................. 43
5.1. Important Contacts........................................................................................................ 43
5.1.1. Departmental Focal Points ..................................................................................... 43
5.1.2. Emergency Response ............................................................................................. 44
5.1.3. List of NGOs in Umerkot ......................................................................................... 44
5.1.4. Police Stations ........................................................................................................ 45
5.2. Health Facilities.............................................................................................................. 46
5.2.1. Public Hospitals in Umerkot ................................................................................... 46
5.2.2. List of Health Facilities in Umerkot ........................................................................ 46
List of Tables
Table 1.1.1: Administrative Division of District Umerkot 3
Table 1.1.2: Irrigation by Type 5
Table 1.1.3: Mouzas Reporting Sources of Irrigation 5
Table 1.2.1: Estimated Population of District for 2012 9
Table 1.2.2: Population By Taluka 11
Table 1.2.3: Population by UC 11
Table 1.3.1: Number of Mouzas Reporting Sources of Employment 13
Table 1.3.2: Livestock Population of the District 15
Table 1.4.1: Number of Mouza Reporting Major Crops 16
Table 1.4.2: Distance of Mouzas from Wholesale Markets 17
Table 1.4.3: Percentage Distribution of HH by Source of Drinking Water 18
Table 1.4.4: Percentage Distribution of HH by Type of Toilet 18
Table 1.5.1: Health Facilities 19
Table 1.6.1: Gross and Net Enrolment Rates by Gender and Locality at Different Levels 23
Table 1.6.2: Enrolment and Educational Facilities by level and Gender 24
Table 2.1.1: Summary of Losses and Damages in Floods/Rains 2011 29
Table 2.1.2: Crop Loss and Area Damaged Due to Floods 2011 29
Table 2.1.3: Losses and Damages for Drought 2013-14 33
Table 2.1.4: Relief Items distributed in Umerkot 33

List of Maps
1: Umerkot Reference Map ii
2: Umerkot Irrigation Map 6
3: Umerkot Surface Water Availability Map 7
4: Population Density Map 12
5: Umerkot Health Facility Map 21
6: Education Facility Map 25
7: Risk Analysis Map 27
8: Umerkot Hazard Map 28
 '"# i

!!$%!&' ()*+ 
()*+ 
 

 

  
  




!./01/!)$02**/345

    

     !""#$



 

(6)+1+*   

6)+1+*.+1'/*0++*7    

( 

!&&)
6)+1+*.+1(+/89*/0   

6)+1+*)+1$:0;+1 
 

  
,-

    
  

 !"#$%&     !$&$'$(


=//
&)</0:6/*=++*+/  - )&$'

); 
/ &)</0:'8)*+=++*+/
+)+ 
 >  )@ 
%&!&'!!



:* 0*+*7*/ #%*'&$%&

 > %+./?+0*
/ 

8/0 0*+*7*/
  > %+./?+0* =//  
&*+!/<7/*A +, 
*/0 0*+*7*+ /1+*/0/8B*/0

 > %+./?+0*  
 (0.++!/<7/*A -, -, -,



 
 
.+/0 1-$(.$$!
Umerkot - Reference Map
May, 2014

Legend
m
n Education Facilities

Settlements
India
!
' Health Facilities

Roads

Railway
'
! KHOKHRAPAR Irrigation System
Sanghar Canal

Branch

Distry

International boundary

Province boundary

District boundary
' '
! GHULAM
! FAKIR '
! n
AMEEN
' m
! SIDIQUE ABRO
NABI SHAH '
! ABDUL !
' FAKIR AMIN MANGARIO
Taluka boundary

MANGRIO HAKIM '!


'
! NEW CHHORE
ARISAR
m
n
' ! !n '
'
! PITHORO *
' !m
MOHD '
! CHHORE
'
! SHADI PITHORO ' MOHD UMER KOT
|

'
RAJAR
! AHMED AMIN
ISMAIL
! AHORI
PALLI * ABAD
NOHRI FARM
'
! RANA
'
! SAWAN RAJAR '
! HURABAD JAGIR
m
n
'
! SOOFI!
' Umerkot
' FATEH ! NOOR !
' DIGU Map Doc Name:
FAKIR iMMAP_PAK_Umerkot RefMap_v02_052714
MUHAMMAD MOHD
'
! ARARO
'
! SALEH RAJAR MANGRIO
BHURGARI '
! MARHOOR Creation Date: May 27, 2014
BHAMBRO
HALEPOTO Projection/Datum: WGS84
n
mnmn
mm
n!
m
n
'
m
n!'UMERKOT * Web Resources: http://www.immap.org
SAMARO
'
! PIR
SIRHANDI 0 5 10 20 Kilometers
'
! OKRARO
'
! SAMARO
m
n CHANIO
ROAD '
'
! SAMARO ! MUZAFFAR
HUSSEIN Map data source(s):
n
m SHAH Alhassan Systems Private Limited : Admin
boundaries, Education Facilities
National Geospatial Agency : Settlements
Logistic Cluster-WFP: Roads, Railway
'
! PADHRIYO World Health Organization : Health Facilities
Sindh Irrigation and Drainage Authority (SIDA):
FORM
Canals
m
n
m
n
!
m m
n n
'm
n Disclaimers:
Mirpurkhas KUNRI * '! FAKIR
The designations employed and the presentation of
ABDULLAH
'
!!
' DIN MUHAMMAD material on this map do not imply the expression of
' any opinion whatsoever on the part of the iMMAP,
! SAJAN KHAN TALPUR
!
CHANDIO ' MUHAMMAD
Alhasan Systems, or USAID concerning the legal
status of any country, territory, city or area or of its
HUSSAIN
GUJRATI authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its
frontiers or boundaries.

KUNRI '
! DARELO'
! NABISAR Tharparkar
THAR
Gilgit
Baltistan
'
! NABISAR
Afghanistan
Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa Azad
!
' ' Kashmir
Indian Administered
Federal
! DILAWAR ROAD *
Capital Part of Jammu & Kashmir
HUSSAIN SHAH Territory Disputed Territory

FATA

Punjab

'
! TALHI
STATION
Balochistan
'
! SYED ALI
Iran
NAWAZ SHAH India
Sindh
Badin
A
A rr aa bb ii aa nn S
S ee aa
ii
iii

Abbreviations

ACO Agriculture Census Organization


BHU Basic Health Unit
CD/GD Civil Dispensary/Government Dispensary
CFW Cash For Work
DCR District Census Report
DDRMP District Disaster Risk Management Plan
ECP Election Commission of Pakistan
FAO Food and Agricultural Organization
GER Gross Enrolment Rate
GOS Government of Sindh
HH Household
NADRA National Database and Registration Authority
NDMA National Disaster Management Authority
NDP National Drainage Program
NER Net Enrolment Rate
NFIs Non-Food Items
NGO Non-Governmental Organization
NHA National Highway Authority
PBS Pakistan Bureau of Statistics
PCO Population Census Organization
PDMA Provincial Disaster Management Authority
PLW Pregnant and Lactating Women
PSLM Pakistan Social and Living Standard Measurement Survey
RHC Rural Health Centre
RSU Reform Support Unit
SDPI Sustainable Development Policy Institute
SMCs School Member Committees
SUPARCO Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission
TRF Technical Resource Facility
UC Union Council
UNICEF United Nations Children's Fund
UNOCHA hŶŝƚĞĚEĂƚŝŽŶƐKĸĐĞĨŽƌƚŚĞŽŽƌĚŝŶĂƚŝŽŶŽĨ,ƵŵĂŶŝƚĂƌŝĂŶīĂŝƌƐ
WFP World Food Program
WHO World Health Organization
DISTRICT UMERKOT
1

1 Background Information
1.1. Introduction
1.1.1. History
District Umerkot is a historically important administrative unit that plays an important role in the
economy and trade of eastern Sindh. Formerly known as Amarkot, it was the capital of Greater
Sindh Province, including some parts of present day’s Rajasthan state of India. It became
prominent during the time of the Mughals. The Mughal king Akbar was born in Umerkot, on
14 October 1542, when his father Humayun was on the run, after military defeat at the hands of
Sher Shah Suri. Rana Prasad, a Hindu Sodha Rajput, ruler of Amarkot, gave refuge to Humayun.
Later, the Mughal Emperor Akbar, a popular figure with both Hindus and Muslims, became the ruler
of India (Hind) 2.

Later on, the region was ruled by different dynasties, including the Kalhoras (1657-1783) and the
Talpurs (1783-1843). When Britain invaded the subcontinent, General Charles Napier, a
commander in the British Army, defeated the Talpur dynasty and conquered Sindh in 1843 3. The
British contributed in a number of ways towards the development of Sindh. General Charles
Napier was appointed as the first Governor General of Sindh. The province was divided into different
administrative units and assigned to Zamindars (landlords) to collect taxes for the British
g o v e r n m e n t . The B r i t i s h g o v e r n m e n t developed these areas as urban centers.
Consequently, people migrated from other districts and provinces as well and started to reside here.
The British named these small developed areas as "Talukas".

Umerkot has many sites of historical significance such as the Mughal emperor Akbar's birthplace
at Umerkot Fort. Rana Chandra Singh (1931–2009) was the Rana of the former Amarkot Jagir
after 1947, and was elected as a member of the National assembly many times and also served as
a federal minister. Umerkot was part of district Mirpur Khas till its establishment as a district, in
April, 1993. But later on it was abolished and merged back with district Mirpur Khas in 2000.
However, it was again revived in 2004, with the same jurisdiction4.

1.1.2. Geography
District Umerkot lies in 690 10’ 08” to 700 19’ 44” east longitudes and 240 52’ 54” to 250 47’ 59”
north latitudes. This district is bounded by Tharparkar on the east and south, district Sanghar and
India on the north and district Badin on the west. The district is divided into two distinct regions i.e.,

2
Profile of District Umerkot, 2009, South Asia Partnership Pakistan,
(http://www.sappk.org/sites/default/files/publications/profiles/Profile_Umerkot.pdf) accessed on 10/06/2013
3
Government of Sindh, (http://www.sindh.gov.pk/dpt/history%20of%20sindh/history.htm) accessed on
10/06/2013
4
Drought Situation Assessment of Thar Desert of Umerkot, 2008-09, Pulished by Sami Samaj SuJag
Sangat, Umerkot
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
2

the eastern part and the western part. The eastern half of the district, which comprises of the taluka
Umerkot, basically comprises of Thar Desert. This region is distinguished by its low and erratic
rainfall, high atmospheric aridity, abundant sunshine and heat, strong dust-raising winds and sparse
vegetation cover. High sand dunes and sandy plains cover 70% of its surface. However, the region is
gifted with a large variety of natural vegetation, there being over seven hundred species of grasses,
shrubs and trees. The perennial amongst these are very hardy, and tenacious enough to withstand
extended drought, efficient builders of biomass and yet nutritious as a feed.

The western part of the district is relatively fertile with green lands and a proper irrigation system.
This western part of the district comprises of the three talukas of Pitharo, Sumaro and Kunri, though
some parts of Umerkot taluka are also included in this region.

The district has extreme climate in both the portions, which differs considerably. In the irrigated
portion, the climate is temperate, being neither extremely hot in summers nor very cold in winters
as compared to the eastern desert area. The summer heat is considerably reduced by almost
constant blowing of the south western breeze from the sea. The eastern portion of the desert area
has a tropical climate being more hot and dry, but receives comparatively more rains during
monsoon. April, May and June are the hottest months. The mean maximum and minimum
temperatures during this period are 41°C and 24°C respectively. December, January and February
are the coldest months. The mean maximum and minimum temperatures during this period are 28°C
and 9°C respectively. Rainfall varies from year to year. Most of the rain falls in the monsoon months
between June and September. The winter rains are very rare 5.

1.1.3. Culture (Ethnicity, Religion and Politics)


Umerkot has a rich traditional Sindhi culture. Women usually wear Shalwar Qameez but quite often
dress in the traditional attire, Ghaghra or Parro as well. Traditionally, women wear bangles. Men
usually wear a Shalwar Qameez distinguished by broader bottoms, and a traditional Sindhi style cap.

Sindhi is mother tongue of the majority, spoken by 90% of the total population in the district. It is
predominant in rural areas at 93% as compared to 71% in urban areas. The next prominent faction is
of Punjabi speakers at 5%. Marwari and Thari are also common language of this district.

Umerkot is the only district in Pakistan with around half of the total population being non- Muslim.
52% of the population is Muslim while 48% of the people are Hindus and scheduled castes. Hindus
and scheduled castes are concentrated in rural areas while Muslims reside in the urban areas.
Hindus constitute almost half of the district's population and the dominant race among them is That
of Sodha Rajputs. They claim to be of 'pure rajput' origin and are called Thakurs. Other castes of
Hindus living in this area include Brahmans, Lohanas (an Indo-Aryan ethnic group mostly living in
Indian Gujrat and associated with business), Kohlis (belonging to Khatri sub- caste), Bheels, Sutars
and others.

5
Profile of District Umerkot, 2009, South Asia Partnership Pakistan,
(http://www.sappk.org/sites/default/files/publications/profiles/Profile_Umerkot.pdf) accessed on 10/06/2013
DISTRICT UMERKOT
3

Pakistan People Party (PPP) is the most popular party in the district and, over the years, candidates
of PPP have been successful in almost all of the elections. This district is represented by one national
assembly and three provincial assembly seats. In the last general election of 2013, PPP won all the
seats of the national and provincial assemblies 6.

1.1.4. Administrative Division


District Umerkot has its district headquarters at Umerkot city. This district has four talukas, named:
Umerkot, Samaro, Kunri and Pitharo. It has 27 union councils and 235 mouzas (revenue village). Out
of these mouzas, 215 are rural, 3 are urban and 17 are partly urban.

Table 1.1.1: Administrative Division of District Umerkot


Kanungo Number of Mouzas
Patwar
Circles/
Umerkot Circles/
Supervisory Partly Un-
Tapas Total Rural Urban Forest
Tapas urban populated
Umerkot 12 72 235 215 3 17 - -
Umerkot 3 27 90 82 - 8 - -
Samaro 3 17 59 58 - 1 - -
Kunri 3 17 38 32 3 3 - -
Pithoro 3 17 48 43 - 5 - -

Major towns of the district are Umerkot, Kunri, Dhoronard, Chhore Old, Samarao, Pithoro, Nabisar
and Shadipali. The following chart categorises number of villages according to population and their
share 7.

100 94 60
90 54.5
80 50
69
70 40
60
49
50 30
40
21.8 20
30 18.5
20 16
10
10 5.2
0 0
5,000 and Above 2,000 - 5,000 1,000 - 2,000 Less Than 1,000

Number of Villages % Share

6
Election Commission of Pakistan (http://ecp.gov.pk/NA-Pakistan%28Detail%29.pdf) accessed on 10/06/2013
7
A Profile of District Umerkot 2009, South Asia Partnership Pakistan
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
4

1.1.5. Road Network Infrastructure


Road network is considered as a vehicle for economic development and social change. Efficient road
network not only develops a quick and efficient transportation system but also opens up new areas
hitherto remained closed. It brings about social integration among rural and urban segments and
greatly assists in providing access to basic needs such as education and health facilities, etc. It brings
rural areas in constant touch with urban segments of a society and creates better understanding
necessary for social change and political awareness.

Umerkot district covers an area of 5,608 sq. kms yet it has only 631 kilometers of good quality roads,
which are inadequate for the area and its population 8. A provincial highway connects Umerkot with
rest of the districts of Sindh through Mirpur Khas. This district also hosts the famous Khokhrapar
border of Pakistan with India. The district headquarter of Umerkot is linked with its taluka
headquarters of Pitharo, Kunri and Sumaro through metaled roads.

1.1.6. Irrigation
Umerkot lies in a drought / arid zone where annual rainfall is less than 40mm, and the district is at
the tail end of Nara Canal command Area. Main canals of the district are Nara Canal and Mithrao
Canal 9. All of these are perennial canals but due to shortage of water there is a rotation system
which provides weekly turns on Distributeries / Minors. The eastern Nara Canal is the demarcation
line between irrigated and desert areas. The district consists of 27 Union Councils out of them 7
union councils constitute desert portion of the district. The topography of the district has two
distinct portions, the irrigated area in the west and north and the desert area with sandy dunes
covered with thorny bushes in the east and south. Some villages have water storage facilities but
mostly villagers are dependent on canal water. Villagers are not in a position to build large ponds to
store and pump irrigation water, so that acreage of cultivation can be increased. On average,
farmers receive canal water once a month for irrigation purposes.

The region is distinguished by its low and erratic rainfall, high atmospheric aridity, abundant
sunshine and heat; strong dust-raising winds and sparse vegetation cover. High sand dunes and
sandy plains cover 70% of its surface. Umerkot district is mostly a rain fed area. In Thar Desert of
Umerkot, the monsoon season starts from 2nd week of June and continues till the end of September.
The mean annual rainfall over Thar desert, in a good year, ranges between 200-250 millimeters and
nearly 93% of the rain fall comes in the form of few spells confined to the monsoon season that
last for 65-75 days. If rains do not fall during this period, a drought like situation emerges, resulting
in acute shortage of food and fodder 10.In the year 2008-09, out of the net sown area, 89% was
irrigated through canals and in 2009-10 it reduced to 82%. The table below gives information
regarding irrigation in Umerkot.

8
Sindh Development Statistics, (2008), Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), pp.262
9
10
Drought Situation Assessment Of Thar Desert Of Umerkot, 2008-09
DISTRICT UMERKOT
5

Table 1.1.2: Irrigation by Type


Area in Hectares
Irrigation Type 2008-09 2009-10
Canal 85,834 72,972
Tube well 7,120 7,042
92,954 80,014
Un-Irrigated 11,021 17,905
103,975 97,919
Sindh Development Statistics 2011

As the table 1.1.3 shows, majority of the mouzas are irrigated through canals. Out of the 232 rural
mouzas, 205 (88%) are irrigated with the help of canals and 28 (12%) are arid (barani) mouzas.

Table 1.1.3: Mouzas Reporting Sources of Irrigation


ADMINISTRATIVE UNIT RURAL NUMBERS OF MOUZAS REPORTING SOURCE OF IRRIGATION
POPULA TUBEWELL SPRING/ ARID FLOODIN
TED Canal RIVER / WELL RAVINE STREAM/ (BARANI) G
MOUZAS KAREZ

Umerkot District Number 232 205 - 4 - - 28 -


Percent 100 88 - 2 - 12
Umerkot Taluka Number 90 63 - 3 - - 28 -
Percent 100 70 - 3 - 31
Samaro Taluka Number 59 59 - - - - - -
Percent 100 100 - - -
Kunri Taluka Number 35 35 - 1 - - - -
Percent 100 100 - 3 -
Pithoro Taluka Number 48 48 - - - - - -
Percent 100 100 - - -
Source: Mouza Statistics of Sindh 2008, Agriculture Census Organization
Umerkot - Irrigation System Map
May, 2014

Ro
Legend

hro
Da
ro
Irrigation System

Mino

Baz
Kh

r
ipr Branch
o

ar

Sam
Ka Ca
m or

M
na
l Min Canal

in
aro

arjo
Bux

or
Min
or Shah

S antor Mi n o
Distry

Br

r
an India
ch
Feeder

Th

Ta
eb
Hi Link

a
ng

gus
M
or Gi Sanghar

Na
no rh Minor

ino
r
M

ar M
or

ra

in

in
Di
s tr Wah

or
Ca

or
y

S ar
al
LBOD Drainage Sysytem

ha
lD
International boundary

i st
ry
Do s Province boundary

S
o Dis
6L try

1R
Doso Dh
aro Distry Sa District boundary
i

ry

SDaifal M
Jum

dk
BACKGROUND INFORMATION

st
a
Taluka boundary

Di
5L

iM

inor
in
hi
Atna

Dis
a

or
Min Land Cover

M3
tr
or Kh

y
inor r Irrigated croplands
Kaho M 4 i no
LA oM Rainfed croplands

RB M
r
4L ho Vegetation/Croplands
Pit

Palli Distr y
Th

3R
ar UMER KOT
Ca Shrublands / Grasslands

r
Bareji al n Ma

Dis
nd

an
al

no
or

Sa
in Bare areas

try
hal

R
M Suhrab D

Mi
rki istry lC At Dis

B
Gu PITHORO ira ta Chho
i re Wah try

H
Umerkot

n h ar

aro
M

hu
i

o
rg

nh
no
r

ar
LB

ist
Ahiro M

Sa M4
M
O

Soo
inor Ko

ry
Dis
D try t W

F ar ash
|

fi D

D 2R
Sp Kab oo l Minor ah

istr

Da
M 3L

Di stry

bc
ina
M SAMARO
ithra

oM
lD
o Ka
Samaro

ra
n

Ca

i no
i Map Doc Name:

r
Di di
st iMMAP_PAK_Umerkot Irrigation System Map_v02_052714

Pu
Karna Mino
r ar

nal
3L n o SINDH

Bh

ra
M

u
in

N
Creation Date: May 27, 2014

nM
rga
or

oo
r
2L Nabiser Projection/Datum: WGS84

ino
a
W

r
Branch

o
Ja ri Fe
http://www.immap.org

ah
M Web Resources:

inor

m r ed
Ca
1L

e
n
r
Thar Ta
Chhatto Min

a
or rem

il D
New Minor Sys 0 5 10 20 Kilometers

Ja
ist
1L

Lol a
nor

ry

ur
Pur
a n

l Dale
a
Chach M
nD ise D istry

Bust
M istry rD Map data source(s):

r
D
irpu

o
r Alhassan Systems Private Limited : Admin boundaries

in
ig

istr

ri Distr

Daleri Mi
y
M
ri

y
Sindh Irrigation and Drainage Authority(SIDA): Irrigation

an Dis
M

Jalal Minor

Kh
in System data

ba
try

a
o

Old Sunthi
r Global Land Cover 2009: Land Cover

To

Ba
Disclaimers:

sM
Na

rar
er try bi The designations employed and the presentation of material on

ai
Minor
ed se

Dis
this map do not imply the expression of any opinion

Mi
New

n
dM Fe Sunt rM
h i whatsoever on the part of the iMMAP, Alhasan Systems, or

no
nri

r
Muree inor

ran

Dr
USAID concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city

stry

iM
Ku
nor

try

Pu
Mure
or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its

ain
ed D

ino

Da
r
is try

Dis
r frontiers or boundaries.

e
Mino

rell
We

r
ro

o
st B
ra KUNRI

oM
hm
nc
h

Sanwary Di
China

Dajha
i no
or

r
Re

Silo
in Ak Gilgit
M Khyber
Naseer

re
Al B o al M Baltistan
Pakhtunkhwa
FATA
iab ino
nd

ra
r Afghanistan Federal Azad

Dis
ad Ta Kh atian Indian Administered

nc
Minor CapitalKashmir

tr y
Silo

h
Di
st re Tharparkar Territory Part of Jammu & Kashmir
ry Fe
ed Disputed Territory
er She

rD
Balochistan

is
Punjab

7R/L
try
Mirpurkhas

ngo
r
i no

Min
Kh S
M

or
Sulta ai a n gi Minor
n rp
i Bra
nch Bh
an F a z Iran Sindh

ur
Ja al M
rk try India

Cha BOB .RD


M
as Di s

in
ino
r
19L

or
Di
st koto
Badin r A

4R
L AA rr aa bb ii aa nn SS ee aa
18
6
Sindh-Umerkot Surface/ Drinking Water Availability Map
Date (May 2014)
NoteUmerkot district lies in drought zone and was affected in Legend
1999t o2002 and now again in 2013-14,Umerkot Taluka lacks !
Settlements
irrigation infrastructure whereas Samaro , Pithoro possess in
Settlements near to Drinking Water Facility
irrigation. Umerkot requires drinking water which can be provided
through Water Supply schemes and expanding Irrigation River Bund
infrastructure. Streams / Catchment Area
River Indus

Nara Zone

Khohistan Zone
Thar Zone
Wetlands
District Boundary

Th
e
Hin

Sin
ba
go
M

M
rn

dhr
Min
in Gir

in

usa
Provincial Boundary

r
Tag or
or o

or
Dis hor

iM
Sarhal
try India

ino
r
Distry
India International Boundary
Dos India

Sa
Khipro Canal
Old o Doso o Dis
s try

ifal
Do or Dhar o

Nara Canal

M
Min Distry

Sa
tr y

inor
id
Atn

ki
Dis

Dis
Min a

a
tr
or

M
hi
Jum y

in
a

or
Kaho

Kh
Minor or
Min

Palli Distry
ro
ho
Pit ari Th
Sarh a

Dis
rC Dhor o

pu
Distry

r
UMER KOT

or
re
Suhrab Naro

Mir try
an

Dis
ji
Ma
r al T ore nd |

Ba try
ino Distry

M in
Distry Chh h ha
rk iM Ca har
Wa
lD India

Dis

ro
na istr
Gu Bh PITHORO l y

ha
San try
haro
u

n
rg Ahiro
ari

Sa
So
Dis Minor

Distr

ofi
Farash
Ko

Gam y
try t W

oory

Hiral Canal
Kabool Minor

Dis
ah
hr o
Bela

try

D
Distr y
Mith

an
Minor

ng y
D ab
Can rao Samaro Sial Ka
al

g
or
Distry Minor nd

De is tr c o M
iar
o

Kan
Karna Min

ino
Min ni
Map Doc Name:

r
M

Bhu
or
in
or

ra
Min
n
iMMAP_Pakistan_Umerkot_Drinking Water Availability Map_A4L_140526

rgar

Pu or
Kot Gh SAMARO
ulam
28 05 14

No
Muha Creation Date:

i F ee
mm ad New

or

Bod
Distry

h
r
Thar Tail
Minor WGS 1984

der
Minor

or
Wa
Projection/Datum:

sha

Ja
Sysrem http://www.immap.org

Min bo

Chac
Mino

ur
Pura Lolan

ar Minor

ais
M
nD Web Resources:

er
or A
pn

jh

Daler
Distry

o
Digri Distry istry

D
Mithrao
Ga inor

is
Kin
D

Min agi
Busta

t ry
M igr
in i

or

i Dis try
To
in n
or

Daleri Min
Jalal Minor
M ba
n Distr
Poth
o

or
Na ran
er

Canal Min
Old
Minor New

bis ch

Sunthi
or
Su
n
Mureed

er
M
Min thi

Min
rar

P
ed n
or

er
Minor

Na ino

Ba or
bis r

Fe ura
r
Distry
Mur

Sanwary

try
eed

hm istr
n
0 45 90 Kilometers

h
Distr
W y

Dis ore y
Re ri D
Ku

nc t
Bra est aro

Canal
jh r

Na

Jamrao
nc

Bra uk o
h Da ino

rello
Da inor
M
Sorhadi

Budhani Mino
o Ak KUNRI
Minor nd r Min al
Ta inoKhatian or

Dis
Ali

re
Ba M Minor Map data source(s):

Silo try
Dis aba ss Silo
try d Min ran2 Fee re

Na
or der PCO, National Geo-Spatial Agency,ASSESSMENT

se
Sh

er
i

er
lan REPORT ON DROUGHT IN ARID ZONES OF

Br
D

Minor
a

Kamaro
Bila or

is

Bagi

nc
Min

t ry
SINDH(Thardeep), NASA, SIDA (Sindh Irrigation and
an

hK
s ir S Sangi

h
Mino
Bh inor F Drainge Authority).

air
r
Na or Br.) Minor az
Br ulta M

pu
Min as ir an ni al
ch Min

Minor
tr y

rM
Ja

Pharho
x-N or

in
(E Nasir D rka Dis

or
is s o to

Distry
Hota Disclaimers:

Khoski
Branch try
Ak

Minor
Minor

Samroti
The designations employed and the presentation of
material on this map do not imply the expression of any
opinion whatsoever on the part of the iMMAP, Alhasan
Systems, or USAID concerning the legal status of any
country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or
Arabian concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.
Sea

Turkmenistan

Arabian Gilgit - Baltistan

Sea Khyber Pakhtunkhwa


Islamabad AJK Disputed Territory
FATA

Punjab

Balochistan Nepal
Sindh
DISTRICT UMERKOT

Oman
Oman Ar India
abia
n Sea
7
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
8

1.1.7. Solid Waste Management


The exact data on solid waste management in district Umerkot is not available but Taluka
Municipal Administration’s (TMA) annual plan and projects can be useful for understanding the
situation. Though the urban parts of the district have waste management facilities, rural parts are
neglected in this regard 11.

11
Report on Tranche Condition (2006), Taluka Administration, District Government Umerkot, Sindh Devolved Social
Services Program (SDSSP), Government of Sindh http://www.fdsindh.gov.pk/sdssp/TMA%20-%20Umerkot%20-
%20LSU%20Assessment%20Report.pdf) accessed on 10/06/2013
DISTRICT UMERKOT
9

1.2. Demography
1.2.1. Population Characteristics
In Pakistan, male population is more than the female population and is among those four countries
where life expectancy for female, at birth, is less than that of males 12. Sex ratio in district Umerkot is
112 male per 100 females, which is more than the ratio at the national level that is 106 13. Though
there could be other possible reasons for such a difference in male to female ratio, one probable
reason of this ratio could be underreporting of females during national surveys. Besides, a very high
maternal mortality rate 14 and poor health care and non- availability of basic health
facilities/infrastructure at the district level 15 are likely to be instrumental for this difference. District
Umerkot, like majority of the other districts in Sindh, is rural by its characteristics as 83 percent of
the population resides in rural area as compared to the 17 percent that resides in the urban areas.

Table 1.2.1: Estimated Population of District for 2012


AGE TOTAL RURAL URBAN
GROUP (IN BOTH SEXES MALE FEMALE BOTH SEXES MALE FEMALE BOTH SEXES MALE FEMALE
YEARS)
ALL AGES 1,084,451 572,001 512,450 902,158 473,701 428,457 182,292 98,300 83,993
00 -- 04 181,566 94,384 87,182 154,721 80,470 74,251 26,846 13,914 12,931
05 -- 09 187,079 99,119 87,960 158,588 83,955 74,633 28,491 15,164 13,327
10 -- 14 139,665 77,160 62,505 115,769 64,168 51,601 23,895 12,992 10,903
15 -- 19 101,168 53,345 47,823 82,181 43,439 38,742 18,987 9,906 9,082
20 -- 24 95,546 46,917 48,628 79,055 38,215 40,840 16,490 8,702 7,788
25 -- 29 84,997 44,737 40,260 69,794 36,106 33,688 15,203 8,632 6,571
30 -- 34 65,059 36,485 28,574 51,902 28,527 23,375 13,157 7,958 5,199
35 -- 39 43,974 23,640 20,333 35,129 18,341 16,788 8,844 5,299 3,546
40 -- 44 44,101 21,846 22,255 36,305 17,882 18,423 7,796 3,964 3,832
45 -- 49 35,849 18,848 17,000 29,825 15,612 14,214 6,023 3,237 2,787
50 -- 54 31,430 16,675 14,755 26,569 14,091 12,478 4,861 2,584 2,277
55 -- 59 20,710 11,329 9,381 17,305 9,486 7,819 3,405 1,843 1,562
60 -- 64 20,368 10,792 9,575 17,133 9,188 7,945 3,235 1,604 1,631
65 -- 69 10,905 5,839 5,067 9,083 4,859 4,224 1,822 980 842
70 -- 74 10,567 5,320 5,246 9,029 4,582 4,447 1,537 738 800
75 & ABOVE 11,468 5,564 5,904 9,768 4,780 4,988 1,699 783 916
Source: Estimated from Sindh census, 1998

12
A profile for District Badin: 2009, South-Asia Partnership Pakistan
13
Labour Force Survey 2010-11: Pakistan Bureau of Statistics
14
0.5 for Sindh, Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, 2006-07: National Institute of Population Studies, Pakistan.
pp. 179
15
Mean distance from hospital/dispensary is 11km for district: Pakistan Mouza Statistics, Table 15
DEMOGRAPHY
10

1.2.2. Population Growth Pattern


In 1998, the total population of talukas that
currently form the district was 664,797 16. Population Growth Pattern
Population of district Umerkot has an 1,200,000

estimated inter-censual growth rate of 1,000,000

1,084,451
1,049,465
3.28% per annum, which means that the

1,015,633
982,915
800,000

951,274
920,674
891,080
862,458
population will double itself in 21.34 years 17

834,776
808,002
782,106
600,000

757,058
732,830
709,395
686,726
664,797
from 1998. 46.87 percent of the population 400,000
is below 15 years of age and 3.04 percent is 200,000
65 years or above. The estimated population -
for 2013 is 1,084,451, showing a 63%

1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
increase in 15 years from 1998.

1.2.3. Population Distribution 75+ 0.5% 0.5%


70-74 FEMALE
by Age and Gender
0.5% 0.5%
65-69 0.5% 0.5% MALE
60-64 1.0% 0.9%
55-59 1.0% 0.9%
Out of the total population, 53 percent are 50-54 1.5% 1.4%
45-49 1.7% 1.6%
males and 47 percent are females. Largest 40-44 2.0% 2.1%
35-39 -2.2% 1.9%
cohort of the population is 5-9 years, which 30-34 3.4% 2.6%
decreases with 5 years interval. Total 25-29
20-24
4.1%
4.3%
3.7%
4.5%
population in this cohort is 181,566.In age 15-19 4.9% 4.4%
10-14 7.1% 5.8%
groups 20-24, 40-44 and 75+, male 5-9 9.1% 8.1%
1-4 8.7% 8.0%
population outnumbers female population.

1.2.4. Dependent Population


The economically dependent population is
Dependent Population percent
considered to be the population that is less
than 15 years and more than 65 years of age.
In addition to them, widowed, and/or divorced Labor
Force
women are also considered dependent 50.09%
population. Dependent population in the case
Depende
of Umerkot district is 49.91 percent of the total nt
population and the working population is 50.09 49.91%
percent, which shows that dependency ratio 18
in the district is 100 percent.

16
Sindh Development Statistics 2008, pp 45
17
Rule of 70 http://controlgrowth.org/double.htm retrieved on 05-03-2012
18
Dependency Ratio= (Population < 15 Years + Population > 65 Years)/ Population 15-65 Years
DISTRICT UMERKOT
11

Table 1.2.2: Population By Taluka


Taluka Population Male Female Pop Sex Ratio Average Estimated
Density HH Size HHs
KUNRI TALUKA 240,461 125,387 115,075 411 109 5.8 41,459
PITHORO TALUKA 119,657 62,544 57,114 140 110 5.1 23,462
SAMARO TALUKA 174,735 90,921 83,815 182 108 5.3 32,969
UMER KOT TALUKA 549,597 293,562 256,035 171 115 5.3 103,698
Total 1,084,451 572,413 512,038 193 112 5.4 201,588

Table 1.2.3: Population by UC


S.# TEHSIL UNION COUNCIL CENSUS 1998 Estimated Population 2013
1 Umarkot U.C Umerkot 26,936 47,334
2 UC Gharibabad 25,007 43,944
3 U.C Dhoronaro 26,722 46,958
4 U.C Chhore 28,408 49,921
5 U.C Kaplore 26,675 46,876
6 U.C Khokhrapar 24,379 42,841
7 U.C Sabho 27,638 48,568
8 U.C Kharoro Syed 27,217 47,828
9 U.C Atta Muhammad Palli 26,839 47,164
10 U.C Mir Wali Mohd Talpur Gapno 25,932 45,570
11 U.C Khejrari 24,337 42,767
12 U.C Faqir Abdullah 22,663 39,825
Total 312,753 549,597
13 Kunri UC Kunri 22,598 82,153
14 UC Nabisar Road 21,777 79,169
15 UC Chajro 21,769 79,139
16 UC Kunri Memon 21,652 78,714
17 UC Bustan 25,145 91,413
18 Sher Khan Chandio 22,044 80,139
19 UC Talhi 23,230 84,451
Total 66,144 240,461
20 Samaro U.C Samaro 22,934 35,575
21 U.C Samaro Road 22,571 35,012
22 U.C Araro Bhurghri 21,005 32,582
23 U.C Satriyoon 22,902 35,525
24 UC Padhrio 23,235 36,042
Total 112,647 174,735
25 Pithoro UC Pithoro 28,169 41,519
26 UC Shadi Palli 26,356 38,847
27 UC Shah Mardan Shah 26,657 39,291
Total 81,182 119,657
G. Total 572,726 1,084,451
Umerkot- Population Density Map
May, 2014

Summary of Estimated population 2013 Legend


Taluka Name Area Population Pop.Density India International boundary
DEMOGRAPHY

(Sq. Km) (No./Sq.Km)


Province boundary
KUNRI 585 121,936
S a n g h a r400
PITARO 855 60,947 136 District boundary
SAMARO 959 88,298 177
Taluka boundary
UMERKOT 3,209 282,733 165
Total 5,608 553,914 187 No. of Person /Sq Km
1 - 136
137 - 165
PITHORO
UMER KOT 166 - 177
136
178 - 400

165
Umerkot |

Ta n d o
177
A l l a h Ya r Map Doc Name:
SAMARO iMMAP_PAK_Umerkot Population Density Map_v02_052814

Creation Date: May 28, 2014


Projection/Datum: WGS84
SINDH Web Resources: http://www.immap.org

Mirpurkhas
0 5 10 20 Kilometers

KUNRI
Map data source(s):
400 Alhassan Systems Private Limited: Admin boundaries
Population: Derived from table 1, district census report
Disclaimers:
The designations employed and the presentation of material
on this map do not imply the expression of any opinion
whatsoever on the part of the iMMAP, Alhasan Systems, or
USAID concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city
or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its
frontiers or boundaries.
Tharparkar
Gilgit
Khyber Baltistan
Pakhtunkhwa
Afghanistan Federal Azad
CapitalKashmir Indian Administered
Territory Part of Jammu & Kashmir
FATA Disputed Territory
Badin
Punjab
Balochistan

Iran
Sindh India

AA rr aa bb ii aa nn SS ee aa
12
DISTRICT UMERKOT
13

1.3. Livelihood
1.3.1. Main Sources of Livelihood/Income
Since district Umerkot is an agro-based rural district where 83% of the population reside in the rural
areas, the sources of livelihood are less diversified for the resident population. While agriculture is
the main source of employment for the rural population, in the urban areas of the district people are
engaged in various other economic activities like trade, services, personal business, and government
and private jobs. Umerkot city is the main trading centers of this district.

The following table shows the number of rural mouzas reporting sources of employment in district
Umerkot. Majority of the male population is associated with agriculture (in 70% of rural mouzas).
While in the category of some; services sector, personal business and labour are frequent in the
male population.

Given the cultural trait of Sindh and its rural areas, where women actively work side by side with the
men, the female participation in economic activity is reasonable in this district, as 107 mouzas (46%)
have reported that women are also engaged in agriculture. In the category of some, services sector,
personal business and casual labor are the main sources of livelihood for the female population.

Table 1.3.1: Number of Mouzas Reporting Sources of Employment


GENDER QUANTIFICATION SERVICE AGRICULTURE TRADE INDUSTRY PERSONAL OVERSEAS LABOUR
BUSINESS EMPLOYEMENT
MALE MOSTLY 2 164 - - 5 - 51
SOME 219 61 67 15 165 1 158
NONE 11 7 165 217 62 231 23
FEMALE MOSTLY - 107 - - 4 - 50
SOME 104 86 15 12 60 - 145
NONE 128 39 217 220 168 232 37
Source: Mouza Statistics of Sindh: 2008, Agriculture Census Organization

The categories under which these mouzas have reported against different livelihood sources are:

x Mostly: population of 50 percent and above


x Some: population between 1 percent and 50 percent
x None: less than or equal to 1 percent
LIVELIHOOD
14

1.3.2. Agriculture
Agriculture sector plays a significant role in the overall economic performance of Pakistan. Currently,
this sector provides employment opportunities to 45% of the labor force in Pakistan. This sector
provides sources of livelihood to 60% of the population in the rural areas. Agriculture contributes
21% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Pakistan 19.

Agricultural lands of Umerkot, particularly in the western parts, are very fertile and major crops
grown here are cotton, wheat, sugarcane and chili whereas other crops like bajra and guwar are also
grown in the barani (rain fed) belt (comprising of the desert parts) of Umerkot. For many people in
the rural areas, lack of access to basic agricultural inputs, such as good quality seeds, fertilizers,
agricultural skills, coupled with lack of basic services in education and health, and above all scarcity
of irrigation water, are the determining factors that affect agriculture productivity.

Total reported area of the district is 501,000 hectares. During 2004-07, 251,000 hectares (50%) were
cultivated. Within the cultivated area, 153,000 hectares were net sown 20, whereas 98,000 hectares
were fallow lands 21. The remaining 50% of the total reported area was un- cultivated; out of which
88,000 hectares were not available for cultivation and 121,000 hectares are culturable waste19 22.
From 2008 to 2010, the total cultivated area was 249,000 hectares and within this cultivated area,
104,000 hectares were net sown and 145,000 hectares were fallow lands 23.

These figures reveal that there is a drastic change in the net sown area. From the previous reporting
period to the next one, there is a 32% decrease in the net sown area. Umerkot is a desert area and
over the years there has been a decline in net sown area. This decline is also evident from the
irrigation statistics. The irrigation through canals has also decreased from 89% in 2008-09 to 82% in
2009-10.

19
Economic Survey of Pakistan (2011-12), Ministry of Finance, Government of Pakistan
20
Net Area Sown means the area which has been sown at least once in a year. It will include areas under crops, fruits,
vegetables etc.
21
Current Fallow means the part of the cultivated area which has not been used for cropping during the
yearunder reference but for which the total vacant period does not exceed three crop seasons.
22
Sindh Development Statistics 2008
23
Sindh Development Statistics 2011
DISTRICT UMERKOT
15

1.3.3. Industry
As stated above, this district is pre-dominantly agro-based, and industrial activities are rare. Due to
the insignificance of industrial sector, the data on the industrial establishment is not available for
this district.

1.3.4. Livestock
Livestock sector maintains a unique position within the agriculture sector of Pakistan. It contributes
51% to the value addition in agriculture sector of Pakistan. It also contributes 9% to the GDP of
Pakistan21. Besides, this sector provides foreign earnings, dairy products’ needs, food security and
daily cash income to the people of Pakistan. It helps to reduce the income inequalities, especially in
case of emergencies (floods, crop failure). Hence this sector is considered as most secure source of
livelihood for small farmers and landless poor. The share of Sindh province in livestock population of
Pakistan is 20%. The livestock population of district Umerkot is given in the following table.

Table 1.3.2: Livestock Population of the District


Livestock Population
Cattle 197,308
Buffalo 97,842
Sheep 149,006
Goat 536,387
Camel 6,459
Horse 491
Mule 58
Ass 28,635
Domestic Poultry 179,945
HEALTH AND IMMUNIZATION
16

1.4. Food Security


Food security can be broadly divided into four components 24:

x Availability of food in terms of sufficient quantity available through domestic production or


imports
x Access to adequate resources given the socio-political and economic arrangements of the
community
x Utilization Refers to the body’s ability to make use of the nutrients provided. This requires
clean water sanitation and health care
x Stability includes an all-time access and utilization of food without any fear of losing it due
to any shock (natural calamity, economic shock). This component points out to sustainability
of food in an area.

1.4.1. Availability
Wheat along with other crops like cotton and sugarcane etc. is produced in most of the rural mouzas
of district Umerkot. Besides, vegetables and fruits are also produced in the district. As the following
table shows, wheat and rice are cropped in 88% and 2% of the mouzas respectively. The table below
also shows the cultivation of other major crops in the district. The overall crop based food
production is extremely deficit in Umerkot district 25.

Table 1.4.1: Number of Mouza Reporting Major Crops


ADMINISTRATI NUMBERS OF MOUZAS REPORTING MAJOR CROPS
VE UNIT WHEA RIC COTTO SUGARCAN MAIZ PULSES ORCHARDS VEGETABLE
UMERKOT 20 6 20 86 7 1 12 146
UMERKOT TALUKA 6 1 6 6 2 9 4 68
SAMARO TALUKA 5 5 5 38 2 5 3 54
KUNRI TALUKA 3 - 3 15 1 - 2 7
PITHORO TALUKA 4 - 4 27 1 - 1 17
Source: Mouza Statistics of Sindh: 2008, Agriculture Census Organization

Food availability not only depends on the obtainability of wheat but also depends on other cereals
like maize etc. As far as cereal food is concerned, this district is self-sufficient in production for its
food requirements. In addition to cereals, animal based food (meat, milk, milk products) availability
is also important for total food availability, which also is produced in sufficient quantities in the
district. However, combining both, the overall crop based and animal based food production, district
Umerkot is extremely deficit in food production 26. But, trade and economic activities of this district
ensure the availability of food through imports from neighboring districts.

24
Define by Food & Agriculture Organization
25
Food Insecurity in Pakistan (2009), Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), Islamabad
26
Ibid
DISTRICT UMERKOT
17

1.4.2. Access
Per capita availability of food items alone is not a reliable indicator of food security. If the available
food is socio-economically not accessible to the masses, it cannot make a society food secure. The
income level of the households reflects access to food, capacity of consumption and even food
poverty. Average monthly income of a household (HH) in district Umerkot is less than Rs.11, 000/-
which is considered as extremely low 27.

Child dependency (ratio between children and household members in economically active age
group) is one of the limiting factors in meeting the daily needs of households and is an important
indicator to measure access to food. The increased dependency ratio enhances the spending of the
household on child care and food, which results in per capita reduction of socio-economic access to
food. Child dependency ratio is reasonable in this district. The share of household expenditures on
food is 61.8% of the total income in Sindh. So the inadequate level of income, high food
expenditures, and high inflation (particularly food inflation) hinders access to food 28.

The table below shows physical access to food in district Umerkot by providing distances of different
mouzas from the wholesale markets. Average distance from the fruit and vegetable markets of a
mouza is 18 and 14 kilometres respectively whereas the distance from the grain market is 15
kilometres. Such long distances impede access to food.

Table 1.4.2: Distance of Mouzas from Wholesale Markets


Type of facility Overall Mouzas in distance (in kilometer) from the facility
mean Less than 1 1 to 10 11 to 25 26 to 50 51 and
distance above
(km)
LIVE STOCK NUMBER 16 6 87 110 27 2
MARKET PERCENT 3 83 47 12 1
GRAINS MARKET NUMBER 15 10 107 90 22 3
PERCENT 4 46 39 9 1
FRUITS MARKET NUMBER 18 8 94 90 28 12
PERCENT 3 41 39 12 5
VEGITABLE NUMBER 14 9 114 85 21 3
MARKET PERCENT 4 49 37 9 1
GOVT. NUMBER 16 9 96 93 31 3
PROCUREMENT PERCENT 4 41 40 13 1
CENTRE
Source: Mouza Statistics of Sindh: 2008, Agriculture Census Organization

1.4.3. Utilization
In addition to food availability and access, proper assimilation of food in the body is essential. Food
utilization and stability depicts this absorption of food and its sustainability. Improved sanitation
facility, clean drinking water, health infrastructure and individual health status along with female

27
Food Insecurity in Pakistan (2009), Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), Islamabad
28
Ibid
FOOD SECURITY
18

literacy play vital role in food absorption. According to Food Security Analysis (FSA) 2009, access to
improved drinking water is very poor in this district 29.

Table 1.4.3: Percentage Distribution of HH by Source of Drinking Water


Water Delivery System
Umerkot
Tap Water Hand Pump Motor Pump Dug Well Ot
Total 3 1 5 1 37
Urban 6 1 7 0 9
Rural 2 1 4 1 43
Source: PSLM 2010-11

Sanitation conditions in district Umerkot are also poor where 37% of the households use
flushes toilets and 30% of the households have non-flush toilets. The sanitation facility is
comparatively worse in rural areas of the district and the female literacy rate is 23% only.

Table 1.4.4: Percentage Distribution of HH by Type of Toilet


Flush Non- No
Urban Rural Total Urba Rural Total Urba Rural Total
93 34 61 7 60 35 0 7 4
Source: PSLM 2010-11

In a nutshell, this district has sufficient availability of food, poor socio-economic access; and
relatively poor level of food utilization environment. Combining all the indicators of food
security i.e. availability, access, utilization and stability, it can be ascertained that Umerkot is an
extremely food insecure district of Pakistan.

29
Food Insecurity in Pakistan (2009), Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), Islamabad
DISTRICT UMERKOT
19

1.5. Health
1.5.1. Health Facilities
The present infrastructure of healthcare in the district is not sufficient for the entire district. The
total number of health facilities in district Umerkot is 66 30. There are three taluka hospitals and one
district head quarter hospital. These public health facilities can cater the need of only 30% of the
estimated population-2013 31. The number of health care staff in the district facilities is extremely
low and gives a ratio of 0.01 doctors for 1,000 people and 0.001 female paramedics for 1,000
women32. The following table 1.5.1 shows the details of these health facilities.

Table 1.5.1: Health Facilities


Type Number Beds
District headquarter Hospital 1
THQ Hospital 3 55
Rural Health centers (RHC) 6 50
Basic Health units (BHU) 30 48
Govt. Dispensaries 10 60
Mother and Child Health center 2
Sub Health Centers 8
Grand Total 66
Health Facility Assessment Umerkot, TRF Pakistan

Besides there are 11 family welfare centers, 5 reproductive health centers and one eye hospital
operating in the districts

30
Profile of Umerkot district with focus on livelihood related issues by SOUTH ASIA PARTNERSHIP-PAKISTAN
31
WHO Standard is 2 health facilities and 25 beds per 10,000 people.
32
Profile of Umerkot district with focus on livelihood related issues by SOUTH ASIA PARTNERSHIP-PAKISTAN
HEALTH AND IMMUNIZATION
20

1.5.2. Immunization
Immunization coverage in district Umerkot estimated that around 48% pregnant women have
received tetanus toxoid injections. In urban areas this percentage is 79% and in rural areas it is
42% 33. Record based34 immunization data of district Umerkot shows that 65% (Male 69%: Female
62%) of the children aged 12-23 months have received full immunization. In the urban areas this
percentage is 56 percent (Male 70%: Female 34%) and in the rural areas it is 67% (Male 69%: Female
66%). The corresponding graph shows the percentage of children of 12-23 months that have been
immunized by the type of Antigen based on records 35.

Urban Rural Total


80 71
70 70
60 69
50 68
67
40
66
30 65
20 64
10 63
74
69

74
69

65
67

56
67

74
69

74
69

56
67

70
67
0 62
BCG DPT1 DPT2 DPT3 POLIO1 POLIO2 POLIO3 MEASLES

33
Table 3.11, Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement Survey (PSLM)2010-2011
34
Table 3.4 (b) Based on record: Children who reported having received full immunization who also have an
immunization card, expressed as a percentage of all children aged 12-23 months. Also immunizations to be
classed as fully immunized a child must have received: ‘BCG’, ‘DPT1’, ‘DPT2’, ‘DPT3’, ‘Polio1’, ‘Polio2’
35
Table 3.5: Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement Survey (PSLM)2010-2011
Umerkot - Health Facilities Map
May, 2014

Legend
Health Facilities
!
' BASIC HEALTH UNIT

India !
' DISPENSARY
5: Umerkot Health Facility Map G
F FIRST AID POST
®
v HOSPITAL
'
! KHOKHRAPAR
!
' MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTH CENTRE
Sanghar !
' RURAL HEALTH CENTRE

Taluka boundary
District boundary
Province boundary
International boundary
'
! FAKIR '
! GHULAM
! '
! SIDIQUE ABRO
' NABI SHAH ' !
! ABDUL'
AMEEN FAKIR
! AMIN MANGARIO
MANGRIO HAKIM ''
! NEW CHHORE
'! PITHORO *
'! !
' ! ARISAR
' CHHORE
'
! SHADI '
! MOHD
'
! AHMED AMIN MOHD'
RAJAR ! AHORI
PALLI * ABAD ISMAIL
PITHORO NOHRI FARM
'
! RANA |

'! SAWAN RAJAR' ! HURABAD UMER KOT


JAGIR
'! ' ! FATEH ' !
! NOOR' Umerkot
DIGU
MUHAMMAD MOHD
'
! ARARO ' RAJAR MANGRIO
BHURGARI
! SALEH
G
F MARHOOR Map Doc Name:
BHAMBRO
HALEPOTO iMMAP_PAK_Umerkot Health Facilities Map_v02_053014
®
v
!
' UMERKOT * Creation Date: May 30, 2014
'
! PIR SAMARO Projection/Datum: WGS84
SIRHANDI Web Resources: http://www.immap.org
'
! OKRARO
'
! SAMARO ROAD
CHANIO
'
! SAMARO '
! MUZAFFAR
HUSSEIN
0 5 10 20 Kilometers
SHAH

'
! PADHRIYO Map data source(s):
FORM Alhassan Systems Private Limited : Admin boundaries
World Heath Organization: Health Facilities
'
! KUNRI * '
! FAKIR Disclaimers:
Disclaimers:
'!
!' ABDULLAH The designations employed and the presentation of material
DIN MUHAMMAD on this map do not imply the expression of any opinion
'
! SAJAN KHAN TALPUR whatsoever on the part of the iMMAP, Alhasan Systems, or
CHANDIO
'! MUHAMMAD
USAID concerning the legal status of any country, territory,
Mirpurkhas HUSSAIN city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation
GUJRATI of its frontiers or boundaries.

KUNRI ' '


! DARELO
! NABISAR Tharparkar
THAR Gilgit
Khyber Baltistan
'
! NABISAR ROAD * Pakhtunkhwa
' '
! TANDO
! DILAWAR HUSSAIN SHAH Afghanistan Federal Azad
KOLACHI CapitalKashmir Indian Administered
Territory Part of Jammu & Kashmir
FATA Disputed Territory

'
! TALHI Punjab

STATION Balochistan

'
! SYED ALI
NAWAZ SHAH Iran
DISTRICT UMERKOT

Badin Sindh India

AA rr aa bb ii aa nn SS ee aa
21
EDUCATION
22

1.6. Education
1.6.1. Highlights

Literacy Rate (10 years and above) 40%


Adult Literacy Rate (15 years and above) 38%
GPI Primary 0.59
GPI Middle 0.77
GPI Secondary 0.94
GPI Higher Secondary 0.20
Population that has ever attended School 39
Male 54
Female 21

Population that has completed primary level or higher 31


Male 44
Female 15
Primary Participation Rate 46
Male 55
Female 35
Source: Umerkot Education Profile 2012-13and PSLMSurvey 2012-13

1.6.2. District School Enrolment Ratio


The education status is quite poor in district Umerkot. The overall literacy rate (for the population of
10 years and above) is 40%; for male it is 58% and for female it is 20%. For the urban rural
comparison, urban literacy rate is higher than the rural, which is 60% (male: 74% and female: 43%);
whereas the rural literacy rate is 36% (male: 54% and female: 15%). Adult literacy rate (for the
population of 15 years and above) is 38%. Gross Enrollment Rate 36 (GER) at the primary level in
Umerkot is 67% (Male: 74%, Female: 60%), in urban community it is 95% (Male: 98%, Female: 91%)
and in rural community it is 62% (Male: 69%, Female: 55%). Net Enrollment rate 37 (NER) at the
primary level in district Umerkot is 47% (Male: 49%, Female: 44%), in urban community it is 61%
(Male: 66%, Female: 55%) and in rural community it is 44% (Male: 48%, Female: 43%). Table 1.6.1
shows details of Gross and Net Enrolment Rates by Rural, Urban and Gender at different levels.

36
Total enrolment in a specific level of education, regardless of age, expressed as a percentage of the eligible
37
Enrolment of the official age group for a given level of education expressed as a percentage of the
corresponding population.
DISTRICT UMERKOT
23

Table 1.6.1: Gross and Net Enrolment Rates by Gender and Locality at Different Levels
Urban/ Gross Enrolment Rates Net Enrolment Rates
Rural/ Gender Primary Middle Matric Group Primary Middle Matric
District Group Group (13-14) Group Group (10- Group (13-
(5-9) (10-12) (5-9) 12) 14)
Male 98% 55% 66% 66% 24% 20%
Urban Female 91% 42% 48% 55% 17% 12%
Total 95% 49% 59% 61% 20% 17%
Male 69% 50% 45% 48% 19% 5%
Rural Female 55% 18% 13% 43% 9% 4%
Total 62% 35% 34% 44% 14% 4%
Male 74% 50% 48% 49% 20% 7%
Total Female 60% 22% 20% 44% 10% 5%
Total 67% 37% 38% 47% 15% 6%
Source: Pakistan Social and Living Standard Measurement Survey 2012-13

1.6.3. Gender and Level Wise Detail


The total enrollment of students in the government schools of district Umerkot is 108,704 (Boys:
69,460 and Girls: 39,244). Out of a total of 3,566 teachers, 2,872 are male and 694 are female
teachers. This illustrates that one teacher is teaching averagely 30 students. The total boys’ schools
of District Umerkot are 561, and the total female schools are 422. Besides, there are 1,326 mixed
gender schools. Thus, the total number of schools is 2,309 and averagely every school has an
enrolment of 47 students and a teaching staff of around 2.

Primary

The total number of primary level schools, that are reported, is 2,156 and the total enrollment at the
primary level is 82,244 (Boys: 51,655 and Girls: 30,589). Total number of teachers, at the primary
level, is 2,937, out of which 2,374 are male and 563 are female teachers. Thus, on an average, each
primary school has an enrolment of 38 students with a teaching staff of 1. However, the student
class ratio is 25 and each school has averagely around 2 class room.

Middle

There are a total of 92 middle schools reported. Total enrollment, at the middle level, is 3,428 (Boys:
1,935 and Girls: 1,493). The total number of teachers at the middle level is 104, out of which 90 are
male teachers and 14 are female teachers. Thus, on an average, each middle school has an
enrolment of 37 students with a teaching staff of 1. However, the student class ratio is 14 and each
school has averagely around 3 class rooms.

Secondary

There are a total of 48 secondary schools. Total enrollment at the secondary level is 10,481 (Boys:
5,405 and Girls: 5,076). The total number of teachers at the secondary level is 310, out of which
male teachers are 210 and female teachers are 100. Thus, on an average, each secondary school has
an enrolment of 218 students with a teaching staff of 6. However, the student class ratio is 39 and
each school has averagely around 6 class rooms.
EDUCATION
24

Higher Secondary

There are a total of 13 higher secondary schools in the district. Total enrollment at the higher
secondary level is 12,551 (Boys: 10,465 and Girls: 2,066). The total number of teachers at the higher
secondary level is 215, out of which male teachers are 198 and female teachers are 17. Thus, on an
average, each higher secondary school has an enrolment of 965 students with a teaching staff of 17.
However, the student class ratio is 79 and each school has averagely around 12 class rooms.

Table 1.6.2: Enrolment and Educational Facilities by level and Gender 38


Level Enrolment School Facilities Teachers
Boys Girls Total Boy Girls Mixed Total Male Femal Total
Primary 51,655 30,589 82,244 518 386 1,252 2,156 2,374 563 2,937
Middle 1,935 1,493 3,428 15 21 56 92 90 14 104
Secondary 5,405 5,076 10,481 20 13 15 48 210 100 310
Higher Secondary 10,465 2,086 12,551 8 2 3 13 198 17 215
Total 69,460 39,244 108,70 561 422 1,326 2,309 2,872 694 3,566

38
Umerkot Education Profile 2012-13 RSU SIndh.
Umerkot - Risk Analysis Map
May, 2014

Legend

Kh
ip
r
Settlement at drought risk

o
India

Ca
7: Risk Analysis Map Settlements flood risk

nal
Canals

Branch Canals
Sanghar Roads

Railway

Nara Canal
International boundary

Province boundary

District boundary

Taluka boundary

l
UMER KOT
Maximum Flood Risk (2010-12)
ana
lC Area at Drought Risk
ra
PITHORO Hi Th
Umerkot

Mi
ar

th
Ca

ra
oC
|

nal
ana
l

Map Doc Name:


iMMAP_PAK_Umerkot Risk Analysis Map_v02_052714
SINDH Creation Date: May 27, 2014
Nabise Projection/Datum: WGS84
r Branc Web Resources: http://www.immap.org
h

J amr
SAMARO 0 5 10 20 Kilometers

ao
C
an
al
Map data source(s):
Alhassan Systems Private Limited : Admin boundaries
Logistic Cluster-World Food Program: Roads
National Geospatial Agency: Settlements
Sindh Irrigation and Drainage Authority (SIDA) : Canals,
Branch
MODIS: Maximum Flood Extent
ASTER G-DEM: Digital Elevation Model
Mirpurkhas
Disclaimers:
The designations employed and the presentation of material
KUNRI on this map do not imply the expression of any opinion
whatsoever on the part of the iMMAP, Alhasan Systems, or
USAID concerning the legal status of any country, territory,
city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation
of its frontiers or boundaries.
Tharparkar

Na
Gilgit

se
Khyber
Baltistan

e
Pakhtunkhwa
Afghanistan Indian Administered

Na u

rB
Federal Azad Part of Jammu & Kashmir

r
Capital Kashmir Disputed Territory

an
Territory
FATA

ch
kot B
Punjab

ranch
Balochistan
Badin Iran
India
Sindh
DISTRICT UMERKOT

AA rr aa bb ii aa nn SS ee aa
25
DISASTER HISTORY AND ITS IMPACT
26

2 Disaster History
2.1. District Disaster History
2.1.1. Disaster History
District Umerkot was hit by 2011 rains /floods. River Indus, after receiving water from 5 of its
tributary rivers, causes floods in the northern and southern parts of Sindh province. The upper
region of Sindh Province comprises of the districts of Jacobabad, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Larkana and
Kamber Shahdadkot on the right bank of River Indus and Ghotki, Sukkur, Khairpur, Naushahro feroze
and Sukkar on the left bank of River Indus. These districts, on the right and left banks of River
Indus, are prone to severe threat when River Indus is in high flood. The districts in the lower
Sindh are prone to riverine flooding and include: Dadu, Jamshoro and Thatta on the right bank of
River Indus and Tando Muhammad Khan, Matiari and Hyderabad on the left bank. The length of River
Indus along the province is 750 kms long.

According to PDMA Sindh, district Umerkot following are vulnerable points

x Thar Canal RD-33 NIP Side


x Thar Canal RD-34 NIP Side
x Thar Canal RD-48 NIP Side
x Thar Canal RD-52 NIP Side
x Mithrao Canal RD-254 to 258 NIP
x Mithrao Canal RD-308 to 312 NIP
x Mithrao Canal RD-410 to 418 NIP

Umerkot has a disaster history of heavy rain fall, earthquakes, floods, and droughts, but
droughts remain more frequent36. Heavy rainfall seems to be less frequent. On average,
Umerkot and the desert region has a scanty annual average rainfall of 10 inches (Bhata 1963). The
Royal Commission on Indian Agriculture, in 1925, has described the region’s economy as a ‘gamble
on the monsoon’ (Chen, 1986).
District Umerkot - Hazard Map
Date (May 2014)
Legend
India
! Settlements
India
Road Network
Drought Affected Talukas 1999-2002,2013-14
Permanent Water Features
Rain Flood 2011
Taluka Boundary
District Boundary
8: Umerkot Hazard Map Provincial Boundary

International Boundary

Pakistan Pakistan

Pakistan
Map Doc Name:
iMMAP_Pakistan_Umerkot_Hazard Map_A4L_140526
Creation Date: 26 05 2014
Projection/Datum: WGS 1984
Web Resources: http://www.immap.org

0 10 20 Kilometers

Map data source(s):


Alhasan Pvt Limited (Boundaries), National Geo-Spatial
Drought Affected Taluka of Sindh 2014
Kashmore Agency, Pakistan Weather Portal, PDMA Sindh (Situation
Jacobabad Report), NASA,
Shikarpur Disclaimers:
Qambar Ghotki The designations employed and the presentation of
Pakistan Shahdad material on this map do not imply the expression of any
kot opinion whatsoever on the part of the iMMAP, Alhasan
Sukkur
Larkana Systems, or USAID concerning the legal status of any
country, territory, city or area or of its authorities,or
Noushero concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.
Dadu Feroze Khairpur India

Shaheed Turkmenistan Tajikistan


Benazirabad
Gilgit - Baltistan
Matiari Sanghar Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Gilgit - BaltistanAksai Chin
Tando
Jamshoro Afghanistan Disputed Territory
Allahyar Iran (Islamic Republic of) FATA
AJK
Hyderabad Mirpur Umer Kot Punjab
Tando Khas Pakistan
Muhammad Balochistan Nepal
Karachi Khan Tharparkar Sindh
Badin Iran (Islamic Republic of)
Thatta
Arabian Oman
India
DISTRICT UMERKOT

Sea Oman Ar
abia
n Sea
27
DISASTER HISTORY AND ITS IMPACT
28

2.1.2. Impact of Disaster history on Demography


The district was severely hit in 2011 by rains/floods. Overall 78.31% of the population was affected
due to rains/floods in all 27 union councils of the district. However, according to the PDMA Sindh’s
assessments, after floods 2010, the district falls under the category of very low risk districts 39. The
extent of damage in 2011rains/floods is given in the table below.

The extent of damage in the district, comparatively, remained substantially low in the district during
the recent floods of 2012. A total of 1,200 people were affected and 6 casualties were reported by
the concerned authorities. A total of 331 housing units were partially affected in 93 villages and a
crop area of 1,262 acres was inundated by rains/floods 40.

Table 2.1.1: Summary of Losses and Damages in Floods/Rains 2011


Attribute Figure Source
Total Households 195,071
Estimated
Affected Households 152,195
Total UCs 27 UN-OCHA
UC Affected 27 PDMA-SINDH
Total Revenue 232 SINDH MOUZA STATISTICS
Villages/Settlements Affected 3,769 UN-OCHA
Total Houses 122,103
Partially Damaged 28,655 PDMA-SINDH
Destroyed 93,448
Total Population 1,049,465 Estimated
Affected Population 821,851
Male 401,620
Female 491,961 PDMA-SINDH
Death 31
Injuries 7
Total Area 1,385,767
Total Affected Area 927,966
PDMA-SINDH
Crop Area Affected 108,303

2.1.3. Impact of Disaster on Livelihood & Agriculture


Along with the demographic losses, due to floods/rains 2011, the loss to agriculture sector
exacerbated the sources of livelihood for the people of this district. The following table shows the
loss to agriculture sector of this district.

Table 2.1.2: Crop Loss and Area Damaged Due to Floods 2011
Major Crops Area
Area sown (Acre) 63,527
Cotton Area Damaged (Acre) 63,527
% 100%
Area sown (Acre) 0
Rice

39
Flood 2010, Disaster Management Apparatus in Sindh
40
Update-Losses and Damages 23/01/2013, PDMA Sindh
DISTRICT UMERKOT
29

Major Crops Area


Area Damaged (Acre) 0
% 0
Area sown (Acre) 6,032
Sugarcane Area Damaged (Acre) 4,222
% 70%
Area sown (Acre) 40,554
Other Area Damaged (Acre) 40,554
% 100%
Total Area Sown 110,113
Total Area Damaged 108,303

As given in the table above, 100% of the cotton and 70% sugarcane crops were damaged along with
100% damage to other crops. 17,334 livestock loss was reported 41.

2.1.4. Analysis of Food Security Situation


District Umerkot is agro-based and majority of the households are engaged in agriculture farming
and livestock rearing activities but there are still others who are engaged in non- agriculture
activities/casual labour. Among these three types of the households, empirical studies have shown
that poverty is relatively higher in the non-agriculture households, followed by livestock households
and small farmers 42. It has been shown in the previous section that many individuals of this flood
affected district lost their homes (122,103 houses were damaged), their crops (108,303 acres of crop
area affected) and heads of livestock (17,334 livestock died). Due to the lack of a strong industrial
base, the sources of income of households, situated in this severely affected district, are less
diversified, with their heavy dependence on agriculture, livestock and casual labour. This further
exacerbated the food security situation. Given the deplorable social indicators i.e., large household
size, poor literacy level, higher mortality rate, inadequate infrastructure with poor access to
education and health facilities show the higher level of poverty and deprivation in this district.

Through the destruction of roads, transport and market infrastructure, the floods had a significant
negative impact on commodity market. As a result, the functioning capacity of the markets
(transporters, processors, wholesalers and retailers) decreased with upward movement of
transaction costs and shortage of food commodities. This phenomenon hindered the socio-economic
access to food in the district 43.

The losses to crops and livestock along with the poor functioning capacity of the markets reduced
the expected income of the population of this district. Thus the floods and rains affected people of
the district Umerkot had to face a number of key challenges to recover their livelihood, agriculture
and livestock; directly affecting the food security situation.

41
Flood Situation Update, 2011, Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO)
42
Arif, et al (2010), “The 2010 Flood and Poverty in Pakistan: A Preliminary District-level Analysis”, Pakistan
Institute of Development Economics Islamabad, Background Paper for Conference on the " The Environments
of the Poor”, 24-26 Nov. 2010, New Delhi
43
Ibid
DISASTER HISTORY AND ITS IMPACT
30

2.1.5. Impact of Disaster on Health


Severe floods can not only cause destruction of heath care infrastructure but also affect health
indicators of the affected population. Umerkot district was severely hit in 2011 heavy rains that
resulted in damage to the public health infrastructure.

According to initial health assessments, conducted by WHO and Government of Sindh, after floods
2011, 9 out of 34 Basic Health Units (BHUs) were damaged, but no Rural Health Center was affected.
There is only 1 district headquarter hospital and 3 taluka hospitals which were affected too 44. Health
conditions before floods 2011 were already unsatisfactory and floods worsened the situation even
more 45.

In 2012 floods, 7,589 moderate acute malnourished children, 4,595 severe acute malnourished and
6,498 malnourished PLWs needed to be treated and out of them 2,039 moderate acute
malnourished children, 1,131 severe acute malnourished and 2,073 PLWs were treated. 10,028
women were provided with relevant information on Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) 46.

2.1.6. Impact of Disaster on Education


Due to the floods/rains of 2011, 204 school facilities were damaged, out of which 68 were fully
destroyed and 136 were partially damaged. Also, heavy rains affected the school going children. Due
to the damages to the schools, houses and roads; education of 16,320 students was affected (Girls:
7,018, Boys: 9,302). Teachers numbering 544 were also affected47. No loss was reported to the
school facilities due to floods 2010 and 2012.

2.1.7. Drought 2013-14


District Umerkot is adjacent to Tharparkar and faces similar climatic changes as Tharparkar. Umerkot
also has huge desert area and droughts are common in this geographical spread. In December 2013,
famine like droughts struck Tharparkar, Umerkot, Khairpur and Sanghar. Though more damage is
reported in Tharparkar as almost all the human and livestock population got severely affected,
Umerkot also suffered from this drought. The failure of monsoon rains, since Nov-2013, resulted in
severe shortage of food, fodder and water. The NDMA, PDMA, Sindh Government, United Nations,
National and International Non-Governmental Organizations are providing health and relief services
and are distributing food items in the affected areas 48. Pakistan Met Department has announced
that this year monsoon rains will be again be below average 49.

44
WHO, G. N. (8th to 12th September, 2011). Health Initial Rapid Assessment, 22 flood affected districts in
Sindh. Islamabad
45
Mouza Statistics Sindh, 2008
46
http://pakresponse.info/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=1ZnSb6B8oFM%3D&tabid=98&mid=722
47
Damage Need Assessment, Sindh-EMIS Reform c Unit, Department of Education and Literacy, Government
of Sindh
48 th
Daily Emergency and Response-Stitautional Information Report, 15 May, 2014. iMMAP
49
Preliminary Monsoon Outlook 2014, PMD.
DISTRICT UMERKOT
31

This latest drought hits only 25 Dehs of the district, rendering 33,445 families vulnerable to
malnutrition and hunger. A population of 167,229 people was affected from December 2013 to 22nd
April 2014. Human and animal population in the district suffered from the severe shortages of food
and fodder. The recent drought has caused the highest number of deaths in persons and livestock in
the district’s desert area. According to the District Health officer of Umerkot, from 17th March, 2014
to 7th May 2014, twenty five (25) deaths have been reported in the DHQ Hospital Umerkot 50. The
PDMA Sindh, with the support of the district administration, has provided medical treatment to both
(persons and animal). Presently, three Medical Camps and five mobile medical teams are working in
desert area of the district. At present, a stock of 800 to 900 Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) and 3,000 to
3,500 Anti-Rabies Vaccines (ARV) is available for the affectees at the district main store DHO office
Umerkot 51.

Following health facilities are currently functional in the district.

x DHQ Umerkot
x THQ Kunri
x THQ Samarao
x THQ Pithoro
x RHC Nabisar Road
x RHC Dhoronaro
x RHC Hyder Farm
x RHC Chhore
x RHC Fakir Mohd.Amin mangrio
x RHC Khokhrapar

As of 18th March 2014, 7,419 children were admitted in the district health facilities of which 2,233
were under five. 54 cases were referred to the major secondary level health facilities. 3,056 under
five children have been reported for suffering from malnourishment. 47 children have reportedly
died of whom 33 were under five. During the emergency, the district administration deployed 135
mobile teams and established 126 fixed camps where 2,999 and 2,895 patients have been treated
respectively.

Along with human population, animal population is also affected, especially small animals. Livestock
is the main source of livelihood in these desert like districts, particularly in the absence of industry in
Umerkot District. As reported by the district administration, 50 Sheep and Goats have perished.
354,059 small animals (sheep and goats) along with 35,725 large animals have been vaccinated in
the district, during the drought emergency 52.

50
Cumulative Data of Daily Health Report by DHO Umerkot shared on Daily Basis during Drought Like Situation
in Umerkot,
51
Daily Health Report of District Umerkot shared by DHO Umerkot.
52
District Livestock Department
Table 2.1.3: Losses and Damages for Drought 2013-14
Tehsil Period Pop 2013 Families Deaths Persons Treated Cattle head
Affected
Male Female Children Total Male Female Children Total Affected Perished Treated/
Vaccinated
Umerkot 11-03/2014 167,299 33,445 3 2 10 15 15,445 16,939 7,574 39,968 - 50 Goat and 293,984
to Sheep Perished
17-4-2014
Losses and Damages as of 22 April, 2014. PDMA Sindh

Table 2.1.4: Relief Items distributed in Umerkot


Agency Relief Good Quantity Agency Relief Good Quantity
DISASTER HISTORY AND ITS IMPACT

PDMA Family Ration Packs 10,000 Mineral water (1.5 ltr) 350
Sindh
Rice (50Kg bags) 430 Mineral water (1/2 ltr) 400

Atta Bag (50 kg) 5 Mineral water (small) 67

Atta Bag (10 kg) 1653 Oil 1 kg (boxes) 15

Atta Bag (5 kg) 70 Oil (2.50 Kg) 50

Rice (50 kg bag) 1 Mixed Ration Packets 1,736

Sugar (50 kg bag) 1 Medicine Mixed (Packets) 11

Collection Camp Karachi


Mineral water 6 ltr 468 Juice and Milk 51

Mineral water (5 ltr) 350 Milk Powder (Nido) 408

Raised Donation by PDMA Sindh at Relief

Relief Collection Camp Karachi


Raised Donation by PDMA Sindh at
Mineral water (1 ltr) 2,580 Biscuit Packets and papsy 50
PDMA Sindh
32
DISTRICT UMERKOT
33

3 Hazard Vulnerability and Capacity Analysis


3.1. HVCA Analysis
Prior to analyzing existing hazards; vulnerability to hazards and capacity to cope with the same of
the district and its population needs to be understood. An explanation of the terms used is given
under each heading, as follows:

3.1.1. Hazard
A hazard is a situation which triggers disaster. But it can be also defined as:

“A potentially damaging physical event, phenomenon or human activity that may cause the Loss of
life or injury, property damage, social and economic disruption or environmental degradation” 53

A hazard is a situation that has the potential to harm the health and safety of people or to damage
plant and equipment. Hazards can be divided into two categories.

Natural Hazard
Natural hazards are natural processes or phenomena within the earth system that may constitute a
damaging event. For example typhoons, tsunamis, earthquake and volcanic eruption cyclones,
earthquakes, floods, landslides, storms are natural hazards.

Man-made Hazard
Any industrial, nuclear, or transportation accident, explosion, power failure, resource shortage, or
other condition, resulting from man-made causes, which threaten or cause damage to property,
human suffering, hardship or loss of life constitute ‘Man-made Hazard.

Hazard Matrix
Hazard Frequency Area affected/union councils Severity/Force Year
Floods Monsoon Entire district excluding southern side( 2011,2012
which is white Desert)

Heavy rains Monsoon Whole district High 2011,2012


Epidemics Seasonal Entire district Low Every year
Droughts Rare Whole district Low 1999-2002
Dust storms Frequent Whole district low Throught
Earthquake Rare Whole district Low ----

53
“Urban Governance and Community Resilience Guides”, (2010), Asian Disaster Preparedness Center
HAZARD VULNERABILITY AND CAPACITY ANALYSIS
34

3.1.2. Vulnerability
Vulnerability is a situation which is:

“The attributes and circumstances of a community or system that makes it sensitive, vulnerable or
susceptible to the damaging effects of a hazard 54”

Vulnerability precedes disasters, contribute to their severity, hinder and obstruct the disaster
response. It is divided into three parts:

Physical/Material Vulnerability
Weakness of the built environment and lack of access to physical and material resources i.e. living in
hazard prone areas or in unsafe buildings, lack of savings, insurance and assets constitutes
physical/material vulnerability.

Social/Organizational Vulnerability
Social/Organizational Vulnerability refers to inequality in social systems that discriminate against and
marginalize certain groups of people from accessing resources and services. People who have been
marginalized in social, economic or political terms are vulnerable to disasters. Weakness in social
and organizational areas may also cause disasters e.g. deep division can lead to conflict and war.
Conflict over resources due to poverty can also lead to violence.

Attitudinal/Motivational Vulnerability
Existence of fatalistic myths and religious beliefs influence people’s vulnerability to disaster risks. If
people believe that disasters are ‘acts of God’ and if they have low confidence in their ability to
affect change or have ‘lost heart’ and feel defeated by events they cannot control, these people are
often harder hit by disasters.

Vulnerability Matrix
Physical/material Social/organizational Attitudinal/motivational
District Umerkot lies at the edge of According to 1998 census, total Lack of knowledge, on the part of
the famous Thar Desert (56 population of the district Umerkot the general public and local officials
55 57
percent of the total area of the was 663,000 . The district has an about severity of hazards - that may
district is desert) and is prone to estimated growth rate of 3.28% per affect them, associated risks,
severe droughts. Droughts occur annum, which means that the damage, and precautions to be
here frequently due to no or very population will double itself in 21.34 taken, is perhaps one of the most
58
little rainfall. Umerkot faces at least years from 1998. Such rapid significant hindrance in present day
one drought for one or more growth in population gives birth to efforts to mitigate the potentially
seasons every decade. Last drought many socio-economic problems and disastrous effects of most hazards.
that started in 1999 and remained makes the area vulnerable to
for more than three years was one different natural and made-made
56
of the worst in known history . hazards

54
Participant’s Course Workbook, Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC)
55
Profile of district Umerkot with focus on livelihood related issues,(2009), South Asia Partnership-Pakistan,
pp.20
56
Ibid, pp.25
57
Sindh Development Statistics, (2008). Pp 27
58
Rule of 70 http://controlgrowth.org/double.htm
DISTRICT UMERKOT
35

Physical/material Social/organizational Attitudinal/motivational


Droughts affect labour market
negatively and decrease livelihood
opportunities.
The eastern portion of the district Like majority of the other districts in Advocacy seminars and awareness
has a tropical climate, being more Sindh, district Umerkot is rural by its campaigns regarding disaster risk
hot and dry, but receives characteristics. 83 per cent of the reduction are insufficient.
comparatively more rains during population resides in rural areas as
monsoon. In 2011, heavy monsoon compared to the 17 per cent that
rains, overflow and breaches in Left resides in the urban areas. Most
Bank Outfall Drain (LBOD) and people in the rural areas lack job
Mithrao canal disrupted the whole opportunities, health and
59
district. 2,869 villages of 27 union educational facilities which escalate
councils in all the 4 talukas were the risk against different hazards.
affected. [floods, rains and droughts]
Absence of disaster risk reduction Dependent population (the Most people believe disasters, as an
measures in most of the population that is less than 15 years Act of Nature which cannot be
construction and infrastructure and more than 65 years of age prevented.
developments is resulting in the including widows and divorced
formation of poorly managed women) in the case of Umerkot
infrastructures, buildings which lack district is 49.91 per cent of the total
coping capacity against natural population and the working
hazard like earthquake. A geological population is 50.09 per cent, which
60 61
tectonic line runs under Thar shows that dependency ratio in
desert, due to which Umerkot has the district is 99 per cent, which is
risk of a major earthquake in the very high and as such makes the
future. population highly vulnerable.
The climate of the district is The status of education is quite poor Reactive approach prevails in the
extreme hot and dry with summer in Umerkot district. The overall district i.e., the government and all
temperature mounting to as high as illiteracy rate (for the population of other stakeholders come into action
62
41 degrees Celsius . Very high 10 years and above) is 56%; for when disaster occurs whereas the
temperature not only affects males it is 39 and for females it is 77 need is for proactive approach
vegetation but also creates problem % while Adult illiteracy rate (15 (disaster risk reduction) where
for the individuals like heat stroke, years and above) is 62 %. Illiterate actions are taken in advance of the
skin burn and sometimes death of a people cannot be easily mobilized disaster. Therefore, gravity of the
person.Children, women, old and and made aware of the different situation demands for a paradigm
disabled people are vulnerable to disasters’ risks. shift from reactive approach to a
severe hot climate. proactive one.
Climate change is said to be There is a lack of Community Based Local vulnerable communities are
responsible for the heavy rains of Disaster Risk Reduction (CBDRM) mostly not familiar with preventive
2011 and 2012 because usually projects in the vulnerable areas of measures to be taken before, during
Sindh province receives very little the district. Focus of the different and after disaster (droughts and
63
rains (on average 5 inches during organizations working in the area is rains/floods).
monsoon). Environmental scientists only towards relief side.
agree that they cannot explain the
floods in Sindh as the area that

59
UNOCHA, Pakistan Floods 2011, Umerkot District Profile, Nov 2011
60
Disaster Risk Management Plan, Sindh Province (2008), pp. 34
61
Dependency Ratio= (Population < 15 Years + Population > 65 Years)/ Population 15-65 Years
62
Profile of district Umerkot with focus on livelihood related issues,(2009), South Asia Partnership-Pakistan,
pp. 9
63
Disaster Risk Management Plan, Sindh province,(2008), PP. 34
HAZARD VULNERABILITY AND CAPACITY ANALYSIS
36

Physical/material Social/organizational Attitudinal/motivational


received the rain is normally very
dry.
Livelihoods of the people are not There are no Disaster Management Lack of coordination amongst all
sustainable that is it cannot cope Committees (DMCs) and Emergency stakeholders is a major hindrance in
with and recover from stress and Response Committees (ERTs) in the implementation of the disaster risk
shocks and when disaster strikes; vulnerable communities of the management process.
these livelihoods collapse. As a district. DMC and ERT members are
result poor people get poorer and trained (on DRR and first aid) and
fall under the poverty line. are first responder to any
emergency situation.
Non-structural mitigation measures
which include trainings, workshops,
seminars, land use planning and
building codes are not properly
implemented by the concerned
departments in the district which
makes the people vulnerable to
different hazards e.g., floods,
earthquakes.
In the whole district, piped water is Risk assessment is the process of
available to only 35 per cent of the hazard identification, analysis and
housing units. In rural areas pipe determination of appropriate ways
water is available to 28 per cent of to control these hazards. At the
64
the households while 13 percent district level, there is a deficiency in
of rural households have hand risk assessment of disaster prone
pumps inside the housing units. By areas. Vulnerability map (used to
drinking unsafe and contaminated identify vulnerable locations) of the
water people gets vulnerable to district is also not available.
hepatitis and other water born
disease.
Early Warning systems, in Pakistan, Disasters, poverty and vulnerability
lack the basic equipment, skills and are interlinked as it has been
65
resources . Similarly, early warning observed that, during disasters, the
system for the floods in the district most affected population are the
is not up to the mark. Monitoring poor of the community. The
stations from the agriculture incidence of poverty has increased
department, in some instances, as floods/rains have reduced income
were unable to take the measure of level of the households by damaging
water level and report them, timely. their assets and sources of income
and thus have aggravated the
household poverty.
The district lack funds and There is a lack of coordination
resources for risk reduction amongst stakeholders (government,
projects. The government and the NGOs and vulnerable communities)
people both are in dire need of working on disaster risk
funds and resources like boats, life management.
jackets, first aid kits, ropes, torches.

64
Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement Survey (PSLM), 2010-11, pp. 429
65
Government of Pakistan (2006), “National Plan: Strengthening National Capacities for Multi-hazard Early
Warning & Response System (Phase-I)”, Cabinet Division, pp.8
DISTRICT UMERKOT
37

3.1.3. Capacity
Capacities are resources, means and strengths, which exist in households and communities and
which enable them to cope with, withstand, prepare for, prevent, mitigate or quickly recover from a
disaster. The combination of all the strengths attributes and resources available within a community,
society or organization that can be used to achieve agreed goals constitute its capacity to cope with
hazards 66.

Physical/Material Capacity
In most disasters, people suffer their greatest losses in the physical and material realm. Access to
physical/material things or objects count as physical capacity. A few examples of physical and
material resources are cash, food, land, properties and tools.

Social /Organizational Capacity


When everything physical is destroyed, people still has their skills, experiences and knowledge; they
have family and social networks. They have leaders and systems for making decisions. They also
have local, collective ‘wisdom’ reflected in their cultural practices that help them reduce or cope
with disaster risks.

Attitudinal/Motivational Capacity
People also have positive attitudes and strong motivations such as the will to survive and willingness
to help each other.

Capacity Matrix
Physical/material Social/organizational Attitudinal/motivational
Umerkot reasonably contributes in District Disaster Management Authority Advocacy seminars and
agriculture sector of Sindh because its (DDMA) of Umerkot district has been trainings regarding disaster
climate is suitable for production of established in the DCO’s office on a risk reduction (DRR) are
various food items e.g., sugarcane, temporary basis. DDMA formulates very limited but have been
cotton and wheat. The annual disaster plan for the district and assigns initiated by different NGOs
production of wheat, sugarcane and roles and responsibilities to the local for the mobilization of
cotton, over the period 2008-09, was district departments. DDMA carries out vulnerable communities
130.2 (000 Tonnes), 243.8 (000 Tonnes) emergency response and relief activities against hazards (floods,
and 114.4 (000 Bales) respectively. in the affected areas. rainfalls).
The total number of schools in the Community organizations are formed by Indigenous knowledge is
district is 2,329. Out of which 2,188are NGOs in the affected areas to great strength of the
primary schools, 10 elementary, 73 are encourage the local representation. local community which
middle, 46 are secondary, and 12 are Active people from the community are could be be useful if
higher secondary schools60. These part of these organizations which
considered in LBOD
school buildings are also used as shelter facilitate the humanitarian organization
and evacuation centres in emergency. work at the grass root level.
project. The project
specialists refused to
take the indigenous
knowledge of the
people which is now
creating problem in
form of flood disasters.

66
Participant’s Course Workbook, Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC)
HAZARD VULNERABILITY AND CAPACITY ANALYSIS
38

Physical/material Social/organizational Attitudinal/motivational


Road network is considered as a The overall literacy rate (for the Volunteers and
vehicle for economic development. The population of 10 years and above) is philanthropists from
district is well-connected with other 44%; for males it is 61 and for females it all over the districts
districts through good quality roads. is 23 % while Adult literacy rate63 (15 provide all kind
68
Total good quality roads length is 631 years and above) is 38 % . Literate of services whether in-
67
kilometres in this district . These roads people can easily be mobilized and kind or financial.
can be used as evacuation point in flood made aware of the different disaster
disaster. Good roads are also helpful in risks.
carrying out relief activities.
District Umerkot has well During emergency, Government The teachers, young
established and efficient canal departments help the disaster hit educated Students and
irrigation system in north and west communities in evacuation and try to youth assist the social
zone. Main canals of the district are maintain law and order situation in the workers working in their
Nara Canal and Mithrao Canal. Thses are area.
communities. They
the main irrigation sources for the
district which helps in agriculture
organize gatherings for
productivity. mobilization sessions
and act as a catalyst in
the field.
Umerkot district is rich in livestock Law Enforcement Agencies are In post flood activities,
i.e. cattle, buffalo, goat and sheep important stakeholders in relief Psycho-Social problems of
are found in every part of district activities. Jawans (Soldiers) of Pakistan the people (especially
Umerkot and there are many dairy Army assist the affected communities children and women) were
directly and help them in evacuation, by addressed by the
farms in district Umerkot. Livestock
providing transport facilities. Army psychologists, hired by
also provides rich food such as meat, doctors provide medicines and other different organizations.
milk, eggs, and poultry meat. health facilities to the affected people Religious scholars (Ulemas)
especially to the children and women also contribute their part
by counseling flood
affected people.
According to the World Health After the 2011 and 2012 floods/rains,
Organization (WHO), total health different NGOs /INGOs have focused
facilities in the district are 64. There their attentions on shelter, wash, and
are four hospitals, 4 Rural health livelihood activities. These organizations
include World Food Programme (WFP),
centres (RHCs), 34 Basic health units
CRDO, ACTED, IOM, UNHCR Sami
(BHUs), 1 Mother and child health foundation and Nishat welfare
centres (MCHs), 5 T.B clinics and 14 organization64. They provide funds and
Dispensaries. These health facilities relief stuff to the affected people, to
provide health services both in rural enable them to stand on their own.
and urban areas of the district, not
only as a routine but also in extreme
circumstances.

67
SINDH Education Management Information System (SEMIS), District Education Profile,Umerkot, 2010-11,
pp.1
68
Pakistan Social and Living Standard Measurement Survey (PSLM), 2010-11, pp. 139
DISTRICT UMERKOT
39

4 Sectoral DRR Mitigation Measures


4.1.1. Education
x The NGOs (National Commission for Human Development, Sami Foundation, UNICEF, and
NRSP) should work on awareness building programs for encouraging enrollment in schools,
by incorporating teachers, students and youth in their community based programs.
Increased enrollment would lead to enhanced literacy and literate people can easily be
mobilized and made aware of the different disaster risks.
x From pre-school to secondary school, Integrate DRR trainings into the formal and non-
formal education curricula.
x NGOs and other organizations working on education sector should organize workshop to
provide teachers with training on disaster preparedness and training early warning signs.
x Education department should produce support materials for teaching and learning linked
with disaster risk reduction.
x The Government and NGOs should invest in DRR sector and should corporate DRR measures
in improving school buildings as these can be used as shelter and evacuation center in case
of emergency.
x Incorporate disaster risk reduction measures i.e, ensure their suitable location and
construction while establishing new schools in order to avoid future hazard threats.
x Humanitarian organizations should take on board the District Education Department and
should provide trainings and necessary skills to the education officials to enable them to
prepare School Based Disaster Risk Management Plans (SBDRM-Plan) for each school in the
district.

4.1.2. Infrastructure
x Awareness programs should be organized by District Disaster Management Authority about
the need of land use planning and building codes so that it can be followed by all the
stakeholders, to avoid future threats.
x The Communication and Works department should utilize the available funds on the
maintenance of roads and find alternative routes that can be used in case of emergency.
x Road networks should be expanded to each corner of the district so that emergency
response could be easily conducted without any hurdle.
x Active people from the community can be used for disseminating early warning for the local
endangered communities because people have lot of trust in informal and locally influential
sources of information; e.g. a religious leaders, a teachers, an NGO worker or a local
government official. But firstly these active people should also be trained on EWS
x Awareness regarding investment in the DRR sector should be initiated in order to avoid
future threats.
HAZARD VULNERABILITY AND CAPACITY ANALYSIS
40

4.1.3. Health
x Health department should take care of establishment of health facilities focused on certain
population. All the health related issues should be dealt by them. But the responsibilities
have to be identified.
x Advocacy seminars should be organized at district level for the training of medical staff to
implement National Health Programs.
x DDMA should assign the responsibilities of health department to ensure the availability of
medical and paramedical personal in hospital, BHU’s, MCHC, and RHC’s. Moreover, mobile
health teams should be mobilized so that the health facilitators can visit the local areas to
provide basic health care especially for the vulnerable group such as people with disabilities,
elderly persons, children, females and those who hesitate to go to the hospitals because of
cultural constraint and long distance.
x Stabilization centers for the people suffering from acute malnutrition should be established
in each small and big hospital.
x Water conservation projects should be initiated by the Government and NGOs in order to
mitigate the drought threats

4.1.4. Livelihood
x Agriculture scientists should produce heat resistant and low water dependent seeds to
bolster the agricultural productivity in Umerkot.
x District Livestock department should plan in advance for the vaccination of livestock
population in case of scarce rainfall and mobile teams for the monitoring of the situation.
x Fodder stocks should be maintained by the livestock department of the district to cope with
emergencies.
x Livestock owners should be encouraged to insure their cattle heads.
x Capacity can be built through awareness programs on livelihood diversification.
x Alternative methods of food production should be introduced in district to mitigate drought
effects.
x Flood control and salinity control projects can be conceived to make more land available for
cultivation
x NGO’s (ACTED, CESVI, CWS, CRDO, FAO, GRDO, HANDS, IMC, NRSP, PFF, Plan, PVDP, RI, RDF,
RDP, SADA, SAFWCO, Sami Foundation, SC, SSSF, SHED Foundation, SCF, SDDO, Trocaire ,
WFP ) should organize advocacy seminars, trainings and awareness sessions for improved
agricultural practices by incorporating CBOs’ chairmen and presidents as they have great
influence over the community members.
x Irrigation department should carry out hydraulic studies so that flooding can be avoided and
find out catchment areas and water courses for surface run off.
DISTRICT UMERKOT
41

4.1.5. Food
x Stockpiling of essential food items should be encouraged among the community through
awareness programs.
x Number of Food distribution point should be established in the emergency hit area and
should be easily accessible to most of the needy population.
x For extremely vulnerable groups such as elderly persons, people with disabilities, female and
children, separate desk and queues at food distribution point should be established so that
they do not suffer difficulties in attaining food
x Civil administration should look after the availability of food.

4.1.6. Wash
x NGOs (Hilfswerk Austria Intl:, Islamic Help, IMC, RDF, SAMI Foundation, SDI, Tameer-e-Millat
Foundation, PVDP )should encourage TMA’s officials participation in the awareness sessions,
programs and trainings, related to water treatment practices and hygiene practices which
will capacitate the vulnerable communities of the area against the communicable diseases .
x Innovative approaches are required to ensure the availability of low-cost, simple, and locally
acceptable water and sanitation interventions. Integrating these approaches into existing
social institutions such as schools, markets, and health facilities is required.
x Tehsil Municipal workers should monitor the quality of pipe water and should distribute
chlorine tablets for water purification in order to avoid diseases like cholera and hepatitis
etc. Big water tanks/reservoirs should also be cleaned regularly.
x DRR measures should be incorporated in the construction of sewerage system in order to
minimize the possibility of over flowing of sewage water in rainy days and to mitigate the
hygiene issues.

4.1.7. Government and Humanitarian Sector


x The District Disaster Management Authority in coordination with other humanitarian
organizations working in different sectors should develop the disaster database of prevailing
threats by making use of the available data and past record of disasters in district Umerkot.
x District Disaster Management Authority should appeals for assistance through media at the
national and international level.
x District Disaster Management Authority should coordinate with the NGOs working in
different sectors to address the problems of people. The NGOs working on different projects
can be invited and can be asked for initiation of DRR projects in the vulnerable areas of the
district.
x Coordination among key stakeholders should be strengthened for disaster risk reduction
measures, implementation and effective emergency response.
COORDINATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES
42

5 Coordination and Support Services


5.1. Important Contacts
5.1.1. Departmental Focal Points
S# Department Office In charge Designation Location Telephone Numbers
Office Mobile
1 Administration Mr. Nadeem-ur- Deputy Umarkot 0238570700
Rehman Memon Commissioner
Allah Nawaz Additional Deputy Umarkot 0238570262
Memom Commissioner
Muhammad Asim Assistant Kunri 0238558015 0333-
Commissioner 2786925
Mr. Ghulam Assistant Pithoro 0238541262
Hussain Kaniho Commissioner
Mr. Nazeer Ahmed Assistant Samaro 0238551086
Commissioner
Mr. Abul Aala Assistant Umarkot 0238570236
Bhatti Commissioner
Mohmand Khan Mukhtiarkar Samaro 0238571489
Kati
Mr. Liquat Ali Mukhtiarkar Pithoro 023851262
Rajput
Mr. Manzoor Mukhtiarkar Umarkot 0238-
Ahmed Junejo 557908
Mr. Ghulam Hyder Mukhtiarkar Kunri 0238-
Khaskheli 5587098
2 Works & Mr. Sarang Ram Superintending Umarkot 0238- 0332-
Services Engineer 571896 3183195
Mr. Abdul Qayoom XEN, Highways Umarkot - 0345-
Veryamani Division 4488388
Mr. Muhammad XEN, Education Umarkot 0238- 0333-
Azam Memon 571221 2733239
Mr. Imtiaz Ahmed XEN, Buildings Umarkot 0300-
Memon Division 3004797
3 Education Mr.Ghulam District Education Umarkot 0238- 0331-
Mustafa Soomro Officer 570672 3885748
4 Health Dr.Muhammad District Health Umarkot 0238- 033-
Umer Rind Officer 571458 12776392
0238-
570716
5 Agriculture Mr. Satidan Singh Deputy Director Umarkot 0238- 0345-
Agriculture 570494 3455341
6 Forest Mr.Muhammad Ali SubDivisional Forest Umarkot 0238- 0331-
Bhatti Officer 570357 2866655
7 Livestock Dr. Abdul Ghani Deputy Director Umarkot 0238- 0345-
DISTRICT UMERKOT
43

S# Department Office In charge Designation Location Telephone Numbers


Office Mobile
Bajeer Livestock 500240 3771579
8 Accounts Mr. Muhammad District Accounts Umarkot 0238- 0300-
Iqbal Khan Officer 570749 3310836
9 Social Welfare Mr. Abdul Wahid District Officer, Umarkot 0238- 0346-
Leghari Social Welfare 571074 3812979
10 Irrigation Mr.Zaheer Memon AEN, Irrigation Umarkot 0238- 0300-
571359 3030987
11 Local Mr.AbdulJalil Chief Officer, DC Umarkot 0238- 0305-
Government Thebho 570740 3307108
Mr Mohmand Parl Town Officer Umarkot 0238-
Shahani 570326
Mr Niaz Ahmad Town Officer Kunri 0238-
Babar 558242
Mr. Nizamuddin Town Officer Samaro 0238-
Shahani 551310
Mr. Abid Hussain Town Officer Pitaro 0238-
Qaim Khani 541521

5.1.2. Emergency Response


S.No Name or Organizations Office Contact
1 Edhi Ambulance 115
2 Electricity Complaint 118
3 Police Emergency 15
4 Telephone (Complaint) 1218
5 Telephone Enquiry 1217
6 Sui Gas Help line 1199
7 PIA Flight enquiry 114
8 TCS Courier 0238-500221
9 Railway inquiry 117

5.1.3. List of NGOs in Umerkot

S. Organization Name Address Email Contact Number


No
1 Rural Areas Development Rado office Nagori Flat Rado.organization@yahoo 0336-3380625
Organization Umer kot.. .com

2 Mehran Development Fort road near [email protected] 0345-


Organization almehran typing 3774243/0331-
Centre Taluka 3895647
Umarkot
3 Sangam Development Qambrani Mohallah [email protected] 0333-2662000
Organization Umarkot
4 Sindh Desert Development B- 16 Near Civil [email protected] 0331-3885606
COORDINATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES
44

S. Organization Name Address Email Contact Number


No
Organization Hospital Thar bazar
5 Sindh Agriculture Sindh Agriculture [email protected] 0333-2978960
Development Association Development
Near Agriculture office Association Office
Umarkot Near Taluka
Agriculture Extension
Office Thar Bazar
6 Khosa Development Ward # 310 khosa abdullah.umerkot@gmail. 0333-2505416
Society Mohallah Umer kot com

7 Deep Development and College Road Khatri khatri.bhagwandas@gmail 0333-7154650


Welfare Organization Street Umarkot .com

8 Mehran Education Health Nabisar Road Taluka [email protected] 0333-


Welfare Association Kunri m 2957106/0238-
575282
9 Young Welfare Association Village Mian Pir 0331-3886594
Muhammad Walhari
Kambhro Taluka
Pithoro post office
Dhornoro..
10 Sami Foundation Near DCO House [email protected] 0238-
Akbar-e-Azam Road m 571593/0300-
Umarkot. Near eye 3300980
hospital

11 Thar Nara Development Plot # 105 Ward# 311 [email protected]/yah 0238-


Society Umarkot Gareeb Abad Umer oo.com 571215/0346-
kot 2190227

12 Right to Play Umarkot Right to Play Office [email protected] 0300-


Ward #311 Rohal wah 3024150/0238570
road Umer kot.. 179

13 Haakro Local Support Hakro LSO Opposite [email protected] 0333-


Organization Dhoronaro Governmet Girls 7199414/0238572
Primary School 262
Abdullah Shah Bukhari
Dhoronaro Takula
Umer kot
5.1.4. Police Stations
Taluka Rank and Name Office / Mobile Number
Umarkot SP Qamar Raza Jhatgani 0238-570741/0333-2600567
Umarkot DSP Muhammad Moosa Pitasi 0336-0217645
Kunri DSP Niaz Abbasi 0321-7979992
Pitharo DSP Ilyas Baloch 0300-8376117
Samaro DSP Ashraf Nonari 0344-3271009
DISTRICT UMERKOT
45

5.2. Health Facilities


5.2.1. Public Hospitals in Umerkot
S.No Hospitals Name of In charge M.S Contact Number

1 District Headquarter Hospital, Umarkot Dr. Jhanwar Lal 0238-571234


03332510951
2 Taluka Headquarter Hospital, Pithoro Dr. Kirshan Khatti 0238-541506
03342818715
3 Taluka Headquarter Hospital, Samaro Dr. Aslam Qaim Khani 0238-551112
03068262192
4 Taluka Headquarter Hospital, Kunri Dr. Mitha Ram 0238-557458
03337032941

5.2.2. List of Health Facilities in Umerkot


Taluka Union Council Health Facility Name HF_TYPE

UMARKOT UMARKOT DISTRICT HEADQUARTER HOSPITAL


HOSPITAL,UMARKOT
UMARKOT CHHORE RHC CHHORE RURAL HEALTH CENTRE
UMARKOT FAKIR AMIN MANGARIO RHC FAKIR AMIN MANGARIO RURAL HEALTH CENTRE
UMARKOT ATTA MUHAMAD PALLI BHU FATEH MUHAMMAD RAJAR BASIC HEALTH UNIT
UMARKOT FAKIR ABDULLAH BHU FAKIR ABDULLAH BASIC HEALTH UNIT
UMARKOT GAPNO BHU DIGU BASIC HEALTH UNIT
UMARKOT KHARORO SYED BHU RANA JAGIR BASIC HEALTH UNIT
UMARKOT KHARORO SYED BHU AHORI FARM BASIC HEALTH UNIT
UMARKOT SHAH MARDAN SHAH BHU ABDUL HAKIM ARISAR BASIC HEALTH UNIT
UMARKOT CHHORE BHU NEW CHHORE BASIC HEALTH UNIT
UMARKOT KHOKHRAPAR BHU KHOKHRAPAR BASIC HEALTH UNIT
UMARKOT KAPLORE BHU OKRARO CHANIO BASIC HEALTH UNIT
UMARKOT SOOFI FAKIR DISP SOOFI FAKIR DISPENSARY
UMARKOT MOHD ISMAIL NOHRI DISP MOHD ISMAIL NOHRI DISPENSARY
UMARKOT HURABAD DISP HURABAD DISPENSARY
UMARKOT NOOR MOHD MANGRIO DISP NOOR MOHD MANGRIO DISPENSARY
UMARKOT MUZAFFAR HUSSEIN DISP MUZAFFAR HUSSEIN SHAH DISPENSARY
SHAH
UMARKOT CHORE DISP NEW CHORE DISPENSARY
UMARKOT UMARKOT MCHC UMARKOT MATERNAL & CHILD HEALTH
CENTRE
KUNRI KUNRI TALUKA HEADQUARTER HOSPITAL
HOSPITAL,KUNRI
KUNRI NABISAR RHC NABISAR ROAD RURAL HEALTH CENTRE
KUNRI KUNRI RHC KUNRI RURAL HEALTH CENTRE
KUNRI TANDO KOLACHI BHU TANDO KOLACHI BASIC HEALTH UNIT
KUNRI TALHI BHU DILAWAR HUSSAIN SHAH BASIC HEALTH UNIT
KUNRI TALHI BHU TALHI STATION BASIC HEALTH UNIT
COORDINATION AND SUPPORT SERVICES
46

Taluka Union Council Health Facility Name HF_TYPE

KUNRI MUHAMMAD HUSSAIN BHU MUHAMMAD HUSSAIN BASIC HEALTH UNIT


GUJRATI GUJRATI
KUNRI PITHARO BHU SYED ALI NAWAZ SHAH BASIC HEALTH UNIT
KUNRI KUNRI MEMON BHU KUNRI MEMON BASIC HEALTH UNIT
KUNRI SATIRYOON BHU DIN MUHAMMAD TALPUR BASIC HEALTH UNIT
KUNRI SHER KHAN CHANDIO BHU DARELO BASIC HEALTH UNIT
KUNRI SAJAN KHAN CHANDIO DISP SAJAN KHAN CHANDIO DISPENSARY
KUNRI NABISAR THAR DISP NABISAR THAR DISPENSARY
PITHARO PITHARO TALUKA HEADQUARTER HOSPITAL
HOSPITAL,PITHARO
PITHARO PITHORO RHC PITHORO RURAL HEALTH CENTRE
PITHARO DHORONARO RHC DHORONARO RURAL HEALTH CENTRE
PITHARO SHADI PALLI BHU SHADI PALLI BASIC HEALTH UNIT
PITHARO CHHORE BHU FAKIR AMEEN MANGRIO BASIC HEALTH UNIT
PITHARO KHEJRARI BHU HYDER FARM BASIC HEALTH UNIT
PITHARO PITHORO BHU SIDIQUE ABRO BASIC HEALTH UNIT
PITHARO SAWAN RAJAR BHU SAWAN RAJAR BASIC HEALTH UNIT
PITHARO SHAH MARDAN SHAH BHU GHULAM NABI SHAH BASIC HEALTH UNIT
PITHARO AHMED ABAD DISP AHMED ABAD DISPENSARY
PITHARO AMIN MOHD RAJAR DISP AMIN MOHD RAJAR DISPENSARY
SAMARO SAMARO TALUKA HEADQUARTER HOSPITAL
HOSPITAL,SAMARO
SAMARO SAMARO RHC SAMARO RURAL HEALTH CENTRE
SAMARO ARARO BHURGARI BHU ARARO BHURGARI BASIC HEALTH UNIT
SAMARO SAMARO ROAD BHU PIR SIRHANDI BASIC HEALTH UNIT
SAMARO ARARO BHURGRI BHU SALEH BHAMBRO BASIC HEALTH UNIT

SAMARO SAMARO ROAD BHU SAMARO ROAD BASIC HEALTH UNIT


SAMARO PADHIRYO FARM BHU PADHRIYO FORM BASIC HEALTH UNIT
SAMARO PADHIRYO FARM BHU Tobban Vari BASIC HEALTH UNIT

Common questions

Powered by AI

The geographical features of District Umerkot, including its location near tectonic lines, expose it to significant environmental risks like earthquakes and climate extremes . The district's hot and dry climate exacerbates these risks by affecting agricultural viability and productivity, a primary livelihood source for many residents . Frequent natural disasters, such as floods and droughts, devastate crops and infrastructure, undermining local economic stability and trapping communities in cycles of poverty . Efforts to adapt livelihoods to these environmental challenges are crucial for enhancing resilience and ensuring sustainable development in the district.

Strengthening the disaster resilience of vulnerable communities in District Umerkot requires strategies focusing on community engagement, infrastructure development, and capacity building. Implementing Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (CBDRM) initiatives can empower locals with knowledge and skills for disaster preparedness . Enhancing infrastructure resilience through improved building codes and better water management systems can reduce vulnerabilities. Additionally, establishing robust early warning systems and ensuring stakeholder coordination in disaster management processes will foster collective response efforts and resource allocation, significantly mitigating disaster impacts . These strategies are pivotal for building a resilient socio-economic framework in the district.

Infrastructural development in District Umerkot plays a pivotal role in its agricultural productivity and economic sustenance by facilitating market access and supporting agricultural activities. The district's road network of 631 kilometers connects remote areas to markets, crucial for the timely sale and distribution of agricultural produce . However, inadequate irrigation infrastructure, coupled with a reliance on traditional irrigation practices, limits agricultural efficiency and productivity in some regions . Enhanced infrastructure, particularly in water management, could significantly boost agricultural yields and economic outputs by ensuring more equitable water distribution and improving resilience against climatic volatility.

Improving educational facilities in District Umerkot to reduce gender disparities requires targeted strategies focusing on accessibility, infrastructure, and gender-sensitive policies. Building more girls' schools and providing female-friendly facilities, such as separate washrooms and safe transport, could encourage higher female enrollment and retention . Increasing the number of female teachers and offering scholarships or incentives for girls can also positively influence gender parity . Furthermore, investing in school infrastructure, such as constructing additional classrooms and equipping them with educational resources, can enhance the learning environment, thus improving overall educational outcomes.

District Umerkot's disaster risk management framework has critical gaps impacting its preparedness and response to natural hazards, chiefly due to the absence of comprehensive risk assessments and early warning systems . The lack of Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (CBDRM) projects undermines preventive capacities, leaving communities underprepared for disasters like floods and droughts . Additionally, the inadequate coordination among stakeholders, coupled with insufficient infrastructure that integrates disaster resilience, impairs timely and effective responses to emergencies . This fragmentation in disaster management escalates risks and vulnerabilities, necessitating a proactive approach involving capacity building and stakeholder collaboration to enhance resilience.

Irrigation is a critical component of the agricultural economy in District Umerkot, impacting crop yield and farming sustainability. It is mainly supported by canal and river water systems, indispensable for crops like wheat, sugarcane, and cotton . Mouzas reporting different sources of irrigation demonstrate spatial heterogeneity in water availability, where certain regions heavily rely on surface water, indicating infrastructural disparity and hydro-agricultural dependency . This uneven irrigation distribution reflects the district's challenges in water management and underscores the importance of sustainable practices to enhance agricultural productivity.

The education sector in District Umerkot faces significant challenges, notably in gender disparity and access to quality education. The enrollment data reveals a stark gender gap, particularly at the higher levels of education; male students significantly outnumber females at both secondary and higher secondary levels . This imbalance is compounded by inadequate educational facilities, such as insufficient classrooms and teaching staff, which limit the capacity to accommodate all students . Socio-cultural norms and economic constraints further exacerbate these issues, resulting in higher dropout rates among girls and undermining efforts to achieve gender parity in education within the district.

The provision and management of drinking water infrastructure in District Umerkot significantly impact public health and socio-economic conditions. With only 35% of households having access to piped water, many rely on unsafe water sources, leading to waterborne diseases like hepatitis . The inadequate water infrastructure exacerbates health vulnerabilities, resulting in high healthcare costs and loss of productivity, affecting economic sustainability. Improving water infrastructure, including expanding piped water access and ensuring water quality, is vital for enhancing public health outcomes and supporting socio-economic development .

The high dependency ratio in District Umerkot, at 99%, significantly contributes to its socioeconomic vulnerabilities by straining the resources of the working-age population . This high ratio indicates that a large proportion of the population is either too young or too old to work, increasing economic burdens on active workers and limiting household savings or investments. This demographic pressure exacerbates poverty levels, reduces economic productivity, and challenges the district’s ability to recover from or adapt to economic or environmental shocks, such as disasters or climate change impacts .

The population distribution across talukas in District Umerkot indicates varied population densities and household sizes, reflecting the demographic and settlement patterns of the area. Umerkot Taluka has the highest population density of 171 people per square kilometer, with an average household size of 5.3, likely due to its status as a more urbanized center compared to others . In contrast, Kunri Taluka has a significantly higher density of 411, possibly indicating higher levels of urbanization or smaller land area, while maintaining a similar household size of 5.8 . Samaro and Pithoro Talukas have densities of 182 and 140, respectively, with household sizes slightly lower, indicating more rural and dispersed settlements . This distribution suggests socioeconomic and infrastructure challenges that correlate with population concentration differences across talukas.

You might also like