Karachi: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) is set to review the Cholistan Canal and Systems Phase-I project, valued at PKR 211.399 billion, during today’s meeting. The project, which aims to enhance water infrastructure in Punjab’s Cholistan region, has sparked objections from the Sindh government over concerns regarding water availability.

According to Zameen.Com, Sindh officials have raised significant concerns about the potential impact on water supplies, emphasizing the need for increased water resources before the canal’s construction begins. The Sindh government argues that proceeding with the project without securing sufficient water could worsen the already strained water situation in the region.

Punjab, on the other hand, has proposed that the Cholistan Canal would primarily utilize floodwater for four months each year, with additional water being sourced from within Punjab during the remaining months. However, Sindh remains skeptical of this arrangement and has expressed its reluctance to endorse the plan without guarantees for an increase in water availability.

The diverging positions between the provinces reflect broader issues related to water management and resource distribution in Pakistan. The outcome of the CDWP’s deliberations on this project could set a significant precedent for future interprovincial water-related initiatives. The meeting is expected to include evaluations of the project’s potential benefits and impacts, as well as discussions on Sindh’s conditions for approval.

Stakeholders from various sectors are closely monitoring the proceedings, anticipating how the government will address developmental needs while managing provincial concerns.