The recent proposal to construct six canals diverting water from the Indus River to irrigate the Cholistan region has ignited significant concern, particularly among communities in Sindh. Critics argue that this initiative threatens the livelihoods of millions by exacerbating water scarcity in areas already struggling with limited resources. Tail-end farmers in Sindh, especially those in the Indus Delta, are confronting increased challenges due to diminishing water supplies and the encroaching sea.

Historical Precedents and Environmental Concerns:

Drawing parallels to a 1960s canal project in Rajasthan, experts caution that similar endeavors yielded minimal success. In Rajasthan, only areas immediately adjacent to the canals experienced increased fertility, while the broader region remained arid. This raises questions about the efficacy of large-scale canal projects in transforming desert landscapes into arable land.​

Water Quality Issues:

Furthermore, the proposed canals may rely on water from the Ravi and Sutlej rivers, which, following the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, are under India’s control. Reports indicate that these rivers suffer from severe pollution due to industrial waste and sewage disposal upstream. Utilizing such contaminated water poses significant health risks, potentially leading to increased gastrointestinal illnesses, as observed in southern Punjab.​

Regional Disparities in Water Access:

The disparity in water availability between Punjab and Sindh is stark. In Punjab, measures have been implemented to curb water wastage, such as penalizing the excessive use of water for non-essential activities. Conversely, in Sindh’s Tharparkar region, residents, particularly women, endure arduous journeys to collect minimal amounts of water for daily needs. This contrast underscores the urgent need for equitable water distribution policies that address the unique challenges faced by different provinces.​

Political and Social Implications:

The canal project has intensified political tensions, bolstering Sindhi nationalist movements united in opposition to the initiative. Critics argue that the federal government’s push for the project, without adequate consultation, undermines provincial autonomy and disregards constitutional provisions requiring consensus on inter-provincial matters. The absence of deliberations within the Council of Common Interests further exacerbates concerns about the fragility of federal-provincial relations.​

Call for Inclusive Decision-Making:

Addressing these challenges necessitates fostering national unity through inclusive decision-making processes that respect provincial rights and acknowledge regional disparities. Recognizing and accommodating the diverse needs of Pakistan’s provinces is essential for strengthening the federation and ensuring sustainable development that benefits all citizens.