Islamabad: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) has granted its approval for the construction of the Cholistan Canal and Systems-Phase I, advancing the project to the next stage of review by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC). The proposed project, valued at PKR 211.340 billion, is a key component of the Green Pakistan Initiative, aimed at cultivating 400,000 acres of desert land in Greater Cholistan.

According to Zameen.Com, the decision was made during a recent CDWP meeting chaired by Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal. However, concerns were raised by representatives from Sindh, who called for a delay in the project’s approval until the Council of Common Interests (CCI) reaches a decision regarding water availability. Sindh fears that the construction of the canal may reduce the province’s share of water.

The Green Pakistan Initiative, launched in 2023, seeks to improve agricultural productivity by expanding the national irrigation network, with the Cholistan Flood Feeder Canal as a critical part of this effort to enhance agricultural output in the region.