Karachi: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) is set to deliberate on the PKR 211.399 billion Cholistan Canal and Systems Phase-I project today, with significant attention on the objections from the Sindh government regarding water availability.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Sindh government has voiced concerns about the canal’s impact on water resources, insisting on an increase in water supplies prior to the project’s commencement. They have stressed that the proposed canal could intensify existing water shortages if not properly managed.

Punjab officials have countered by suggesting that the canal would primarily operate using floodwaters during a four-month period each year, with additional water being sourced internally for the rest of the time. This proposal, however, has not alleviated Sindh’s apprehensions, as they seek firmer assurances on water availability.

The meeting is expected to explore various dimensions of the project, including potential benefits and the specifics of Sindh’s conditions for approval. This discussion is crucial as it could influence the framework for future water management practices and interprovincial cooperation in Pakistan.