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The Council of Common Interests (CCI) has recently taken a significant step by rejecting the federal government’s proposal for the construction of new canals. This decision comes after considerable opposition from the Sindh government and a number of regional political groups, particularly in Sindh, who viewed the project as a potential threat to their water rights.
The proposal in question, which aimed to build six new canals from the Indus River to irrigate the Cholistan Desert, was initially approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) in February 2024. However, the CCI, which comprises the chief ministers of all four provinces along with key federal ministers, decided that no such projects would proceed without the consensus of all provinces.
The federal government’s decision to engage in dialogue over water management was underscored by a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, following the CCI meeting. The statement emphasized that the construction of any new canals would only move forward once there is a broad agreement that respects the rights of all provinces. This marks a significant shift in policy, with the government committing to ensure that the principles of mutual understanding and cooperation guide the management of Pakistan’s water resources.
One of the critical issues at the heart of the disagreement is the Water Apportionment Accord of 1991. This accord is meant to ensure equitable water distribution among provinces, and any new projects that could alter the water flow, such as new canals, could potentially upset this delicate balance. Sindh, in particular, has voiced strong concerns about the project, fearing that it would reduce the share of water allocated to the province, a concern that was echoed by many nationalist groups and civil society organizations in the region.
Commitment to Consensus
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who chaired the meeting, underscored that the federal government is fully committed to resolving the water dispute through a comprehensive agreement involving all provinces. The objective is to ensure that the water rights of each province are honored, in line with the Water Policy of 2018, while addressing the agricultural needs of Pakistan as a whole.
Following the meeting, the government announced the formation of a special committee, which will include representatives from both the federal and provincial governments. This committee will be tasked with examining the broader issue of agricultural policy and water management infrastructure, with the goal of creating long-term solutions that benefit the entire country. The committee’s role will be crucial in navigating the complex and sensitive nature of water distribution, with the aim of finding solutions that are acceptable to all stakeholders.
The CCI’s rejection of the canal project also led to the annulment of the provisional approval previously granted by ECNEC, as well as the IRSA water availability certificate issued in January 2024. This move is seen as a step towards ensuring that the country’s water resources are managed with the cooperation of all provinces and not unilaterally by the federal government.
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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Demands and Gains
During the meeting, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister, Ali Amin Gandapur, confirmed that three of the province’s key demands were accepted to be included in the agenda for the next CCI session. These demands include a review of the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, which determines the allocation of financial resources among provinces, and the recognition of tobacco as a formal crop. These victories were hailed as important achievements for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and a demonstration of how regional concerns are being brought to the forefront of national policy discussions.
Ongoing Protests in Sindh
Meanwhile, the rejection of the canal project has not fully quelled the protests in Sindh, where opposition to the proposal has been growing in recent weeks. Despite the federal government’s assurances, sit-ins and blockades have continued in several regions of the province. Protests, particularly at the Khairpur Baberlo Bypass and Mangrio Pump near Daharki, have entered their second week, severely disrupting transport and supply chains. These blockades have caused significant delays, with essential goods such as fuel and food items becoming difficult to transport.
The government has urged Sindh to clear the roads, with Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stating that all the protesters’ demands related to the canal project had been accepted. Despite this, the ongoing protests show the deep-rooted concerns surrounding water rights and the management of resources in the country.
Looking Forward
In conclusion, the CCI’s decision to reject the new canal construction plan reflects the complexity of managing Pakistan’s water resources. The government’s commitment to building national consensus on this issue is essential, especially in light of the ongoing challenges of agriculture, water management, and regional political tensions. The establishment of the new committee offers hope that, through dialogue, Pakistan can find a solution that balances the needs of all provinces while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the country’s water resources.
