Sindh CM Urges Peaceful Protest Against Canal Construction

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Tuesday called on demonstrators protesting the construction of new canals to maintain order and avoid causing difficulties for citizens by obstructing highways and major roads.

During a press conference held in Karachi, CM Murad stated, “Lawyers and nationalists should continue their demonstrations without causing trouble for their own people.”

He noted that the PPP and the protestors share a common objective, adding that his party would also stage demonstrations if ongoing discussions with the federal government prove unsuccessful.

Earlier this year, in February, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the Green Pakistan Initiative in Cholistan, with the aim of revolutionizing agriculture and centralizing agricultural resources for farmers.

The initiative sparked widespread opposition in Sindh, leading the provincial assembly to unanimously adopt a resolution in March against the construction of six new canals on the Indus River. Subsequently, the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) and other nationalist factions organized large rallies in various cities across the province, including Karachi.

In his address today, the Sindh CM declared that the controversial canal initiative would be blocked at every turn.

“The Sindh government and the PPP will not permit the construction of the canal project, relying on the strength of the people,” he asserted.

The CM stated that work on the canal project has been suspended since July 2024, with project approval pending since November of the previous year. He questioned why the project has not been completely shelved.

“Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is also cognizant of the serious implications of the canal project,” he stated, expressing his hope that the premier would act justly.

A protest march organized by the Save Indus Students Alliance, supported by the Karachi Bachao Tehreek and other groups, commenced at Teen Talwar and proceeded to Fowara Chowk. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Jr. also joined the protesters.

The demonstration, similar to many others in the province, opposed the canal project and convened a rally at Fowara Chowk.

The previous day, Special Assistant to the PM on political affairs Rana Sanaullah spoke with Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon for the third consecutive day to discuss the matter.

“The prime minister will make a suitable decision on this issue,” Sanaullah stated, while Memon emphasized that “any discussions will occur strictly at the government-to-government level.”

Speaking on a television program on Tuesday, Sanaullah affirmed that Sindh’s interests would not be jeopardized.

“[We have] no intention of taking even a drop of Sindh’s water,” he said, noting that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) was open to dialogue and that the federal government was seriously considering the issue.

The minister also downplayed remarks made by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who cautioned last week that his party might leave the ruling coalition if the federal government failed to address its concerns regarding the controversial canals project.

“What Bilawal said at the public gathering was said in the intensity of giving a speech,” Sanaullah remarked.

He urged moderation in political conversation and reminded everyone to maintain mutual respect. “There is no need to react to what Bilawal said. Statements should remain measured, and others must be treated with respect and dignity,” he added.

Memon echoed the federal government’s emphasis on dialogue and reiterated the province’s apprehensions. “The canal issue is a matter of public concern,” he said, adding, “The Sindh government represents the people of Sindh.”

Memon added that objections to the canal project have been voiced on numerous occasions and in various forums. “If the federal government wishes to discuss the matter, it is welcome. The PPP will certainly advocate for the people of Sindh,” he stated.

Meanwhile, protests in Sindh regarding the issue continue to cause disruptions. Memon urged demonstrators to protest responsibly. “Protesters have been asked to hold their protests in designated areas and not block roads, as it harms ordinary citizens,” he said.