The federal and Sindh governments have agreed to initiate talks over the controversial six canals project on the Indus River, following the first formal contact between the two sides on the issue.
The breakthrough came after Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah held a telephonic conversation with Sindh’s Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon on Sunday. During the call, Sanaullah assured Memon that the federal government is willing to engage in meaningful dialogue to address Sindh’s concerns.
He also conveyed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif had directed the party to ensure the matter is resolved amicably, with due consideration given to Sindh’s reservations.
Sharjeel Memon, in response, reiterated Sindh’s consistent opposition to the project, highlighting that the provincial government and the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) have presented their stance across all relevant forums. He emphasized that the people of Sindh and the PPP remain deeply concerned about the proposed canal initiative.
Memon reaffirmed the PPP’s demand for a fair and just distribution of water resources under the 1991 Water Accord and said the party remains open to talks to protect Sindh’s water rights.
Earlier, PPP leader Shazia Marri had strongly criticized the proposed project, calling it an “irresponsible” move at a time when Sindh and Balochistan are already facing severe water shortages. She reminded that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had also issued a stern warning to federal authorities regarding the controversial canal plan.
The agreement to hold talks marks a significant step toward addressing inter-provincial concerns over water distribution and infrastructure planning on the Indus River.
