PPP Urges Resolution on Indus Canal Dispute, Warns of Possible Exit from Coalition
Hyderabad / Lahore – The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has reiterated its concerns over the construction of new canals on the Indus River, urging the federal government to address the issue promptly. Party leaders have indicated that if the matter remains unresolved, the PPP may consider quitting the ruling coalition at the Centre.
The development comes amid rising tensions between Punjab and Sindh over water distribution, with both provinces presenting contrasting claims regarding the usage and reporting of water from the Indus River system.
Sindh Maintains Strong Stance
Speaking to the media in Sehwan, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stated that the province holds an “ironclad” case against the construction of new canals, which it believes would impact Sindh’s share of water.
“We have strong evidence and a firm viewpoint. Anyone reviewing our case would understand our concerns and support our stance,” said CM Shah. He emphasized that Sindh has formally submitted its objections to the Council of Common Interests (CCI), particularly regarding the Cholistan and Greater Thal Canal (Phase II) projects.
CM Shah made it clear that the PPP remains firm in its position that no new canals should be constructed over the Indus River. He also noted that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari would soon address a public gathering in Hyderabad, where he is expected to speak on this matter.
Earlier, during a speech in Garhi Khuda Bux, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari had expressed that the party would stand with the public rather than the federal government if a decision to proceed with the canals was taken.
PPP in Punjab Voices Concerns
Syed Hassan Murtaza, PPP Central Punjab General Secretary, echoed similar concerns and called for a CCI meeting to resolve the issue. He cautioned that the PPP may take “extreme steps”, including withdrawing from the coalition, if its concerns were not taken seriously.
“All provinces should follow the agreed terms of the 1991 Water Apportionment Accord,” he said, questioning how additional water for six proposed canals would be sourced when the country is already facing a 20% water shortage.
Mr. Murtaza also dismissed claims that President Asif Ali Zardari approved the canal project, stating that the president has always acted in the national interest and urged those making such claims to present credible documentation.
Punjab Raises Water Distribution Concerns
Meanwhile, Punjab’s irrigation department has submitted a formal complaint to the Indus River System Authority (IRSA), alleging discrepancies in water discharge reporting by Sindh.
According to Punjab, water data from Sindh’s barrages is being underreported, leading to an imbalance in the distribution of water. The letter specifically mentioned that Punjab was receiving less than its allocated share, while Sindh was receiving additional water at the cost of reducing storage in the Tarbela Dam and putting pressure on the Mangla Reservoir.
One specific claim involved the Rice Canal, which was reported as closed by Sindh but was allegedly flowing at 936 cubic feet per second (CFS).
Punjab has requested IRSA to ensure accurate and transparent water reporting, particularly from the Guddu and Sukkur barrages in Sindh, to uphold the principles of fair distribution.
