Islamabad: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) is set to review the PKR 211.399 billion Cholistan Canal and Systems Phase-I project, which has drawn objections from the Sindh government concerning potential impacts on water availability.

According to Zameen.Com, Sindh officials have raised concerns about the canal’s potential to worsen water shortages unless water supplies are increased prior to construction. They argue that proceeding without adequate water could further strain the region’s resources. Punjab, on the other hand, maintains that the canal will utilize floodwater during four months of the year, with additional water sourced from within the province during the remaining months.

The conflicting positions between the two provinces highlight ongoing challenges related to water management and interprovincial resource allocation. As the CDWP prepares to deliberate on the project, the decision could influence future water-related development efforts and relations between provinces.

Stakeholders expect the CDWP meeting to include evaluations of the project’s benefits and its potential environmental impacts, with Sindh seeking assurances on water availability as a condition for approval.