LARKANA: A delegation of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Tuesday discussed with the Larkana deputy commissioner the ongoing and upcoming initiatives under its Flood Recovery Programme (FRP) in the district.

The delegation, led by Engineer Shahid, met Deputy Commissioner Tariq Masood Chandio in his office. Assistant Director Zakir Hussain Gopang of the Larkana Planning and Development Department and officers of other relevant departments were also present.

The delegation informed the DC that under the FRP 2025-26, UNDP is implementing a number of new projects in Larkana and its surrounding areas. The key areas included the construction of low-cost flood-resistant housing units for the families affected by the 2022 floods. Disaster-resilient designs and local materials are being used in the construction, it said.

The UNDP is currently rehabilitating 29 flood-damaged schools in the district. Under the project, Govt Girls High School, Akil, is being developed as a model school featuring improved classrooms, wash facilities, boundary walls and furniture. Installation of solar power systems in government buildings and support for restoring the livelihoods of flood-affected communities, including skills training, small grants and provision of agricultural inputs are part of the project. The delegation told the DC that all projects are being completed in close coordination with the Sindh government to ensure their sustainability and community ownership.

The DC appreciated UNDP’s support for flood-affected families of Larkana and assured the delegation of his district administration’s full cooperation in completing all FRP projects.

He directed the relevant departments, including education, works & services and revenue, to cooperate with UNDP teams in identifying the sites, and obtaining NOCs, besides mobilising communities.

The DC stressed timely completion of the 29 schools, particularly the model school at Akil, so that educational activities are not disrupted.

He noted that the climate-resilient housing and solar energy initiatives are in line with the Sindh government’s ‘build back better’ vision, and will play an important role in protecting local communities from future climate disasters and their effects.

Both sides agreed to maintain regular contact through the DC Office to ensure smooth implementation and monitoring of the FRP projects in the district.

Published in Dawn, October 14th, 2026