DADU, Dec 19: Water level in Manchhar lake is increasing as rainwater from Nai Gaj, nullahs on western side of Johi and Sehwan talukas and the MNV drain are falling in it.

Rain in Kirthar Range and Kachho Belt has increased the flow in Nai Gaj by up to five feet and the MNV drain is standing at 113.4 feet reduced level (RL). Water from both the places ends in Manchhar lake, pushing up its level. Irrigation officials are releasing 350 cusecs from the lake into river Indus.

Duty officer Gulfam said that Khirthar mountains are receiving rain for last few days which is increasing the flow in Nai Gaaj. The lake is also receiving polluted water from the MNV drain, he said. Fishermen have stopped their activities because of rising water level, he said.

Chief Engineer, Right Bank, Sukkur Barrage, Agha Aijaz Ahmed told Dawn that water level in the lake has touched the dangerous point and further rain could harm its embankments.

He said that they are releasing water from the lake into river on committee’s decision adding that RBOD-II would protect Manchhar Lake as it would carry saline water into sea. Fisherman Ali Nawaz Mallah demanded of the government to start work at RBOD-II which has been stopped due to the non release of funds.