Canal-free Indus

I am writing to convey my profound concern over the proposed construction of six canals on the Indus River. Sindh has long suffered due to water mismanagement and further canal construction will have severe ecological and agricultural consequences. Earlier this month, the Sindh Assembly unanimously passed a resolution against the construction of the canals and an immediate halt to any plans, activities or projects until provincial governments, especially Sindh, reach an agreement. Yet, the federal government appears to insist on proceeding.

The Indus isn’t just a source of water, it is a lifeline of Sindh and the very essence of Sindhi Identity. These controversial project has invoked protests in Sindh by students, farmers and activists. We implore the authorities to immediately halt all work on these canals. They will not only strain relations between provinces but might also push Sindh into an irreversible water crisis.

Arpna Rassani

Islamabad