The federal government has decided to withdraw its controversial plan to construct six canals on Indus River. The decision comes after widespread protests in Sindh, which raised concerns over the province’s water resources amid a worsening drought.
Official Announcement Expected Tonight
Sources indicate that an official statement regarding the cancellation of the Indus River canals project is expected this evening. A crucial meeting is scheduled at 4 PM today in Islamabad, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari will finalize the decision. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah will also attend, reinforcing Sindh’s stance on protecting its water rights.
Sindh’s Protests Highlight Water Crisis
The proposed canals on Indus River sparked outrage in Sindh, where the PPP-led provincial government accused the federal and Punjab governments of threatening the region’s irrigation water supply. The Pakistan water crisis has intensified due to reduced river flows, prompting sit-ins across Sindh’s highways. These protests, supported by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, underscored the urgency of addressing the Indus River water dispute.
“We raised our voice against the canals project in June 2024 at the Council of Common Interest (CCI),” Shah stated in Karachi. He vowed that Sindh would not allow the construction of these canals, a promise backed by public support.
Export Crisis: Potatoes Stranded Amid Blockades
The protests have disrupted more than just traffic. Around 250 containers of potatoes destined for export markets are stranded at Sindh’s entry points due to road blockades. Exporters warn that delays could spoil these perishable goods, as temperature-controlled containers rely on generators. The fruit and vegetable export industry is now facing significant losses, adding pressure to resolve the crisis swiftly.
The decision to cancel the canals on Indus River project is a significant victory for Sindh’s advocacy for equitable water distribution. As the Pakistan water crisis continues to challenge agriculture and livelihoods, this move could ease tensions between provinces and the federal government. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story.
