PPP Demands Fair Allocation of Water Share and Construction of New Canals
In a recent development in Islamabad, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has taken a stand against the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government, demanding fair allocation of water share for Sindh and raising concerns about the construction of new canals. This confrontation has brought to light critical issues surrounding water distribution and management in the region.
Senator Sherry Rehman Calls for Action
Senator Sherry Rehman, the PPP Parliamentary Leader in the Senate, has been vocal in her call for action. She emphasized the need for a meeting of the Council of Common Interest (CCI) to address the government’s stance on commercial farming in desert areas and the construction of canals on the Indus River. During a session in the Senate, Rehman highlighted the lack of CCI meetings over the past 11 months and warned about the potential consequences of the proposed canal construction on water distribution in Sindh.
Opposition Leader Stands in Solidarity
Opposition Leader Shibli Faraz echoed the PPP’s concerns, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rights of lower riparian areas. Faraz called for a CCI meeting to resolve the pressing issues of water scarcity and equitable distribution. The discussion in the Senate shed light on discrepancies between official data presented by the Minister for Water Resources and the ground realities perceived by PPP lawmakers.
Minister’s Response and Apology
Minister for Water Resources Mussadik Malik defended the government’s position, stating that the water distribution formula remained intact and that no reduction in anyone’s water share had occurred. He emphasized the possibility of building canals on allocated water shares and ruled out any infringement due to the 18th Amendment. Additionally, the session witnessed protests from PPP lawmakers over statements made by Communications Minister Aleem Khan, which were later addressed with an apology.
This clash of perspectives underscores the critical importance of transparent and equitable water management practices to address the growing challenges of water scarcity and distribution in the region. As stakeholders navigate complex issues of resource allocation and development, the need for collaborative and inclusive decision-making processes becomes increasingly evident. The concerns raised by the PPP serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for fair access to essential resources and the imperative of sustainable water governance for the well-being of all communities.
