The Balochistan government is contemplating legal action against the Sindh government over what it perceives as an unfair distribution of canal water. Despite multiple attempts to resolve the issue through discussions with the Sindh chief minister and other authorities, Balochistan has yet to receive its approved water share.
Officials have noted a worsening shortage of canal water in Balochistan, attributed to continuous reductions in water supply by Sindh, despite improved river flows. Mudassar Khoso, the Pat Feeder Canal Superintending Engineer, revealed that Balochistan is currently receiving only 0.365 million acre-feet (MAF) of water, which falls significantly short of its allocated share of 0.678 MAF, resulting in a deficit of 0.310 MAF.
Khoso highlighted specific discrepancies in water allocation, such as Balochistan receiving 4,096 cusecs of water at RD-109 instead of the required 6,700 cusecs, and only 1,050 cusecs at RD-102 compared to the demanded 2,400 cusecs. Despite his previous efforts to address the issue through official channels, he expressed disappointment with the responses received.
In response to the ongoing reduction in Balochistan's water share by Sindh, Provincial Irrigation Minister Mir Muhammad Sadiq Umrani emphasized the seriousness of the situation. He noted that despite engagements with various officials, including the federal minister for water resources and the Sindh irrigation authorities, deductions from Balochistan's share persisted.
Umrani revealed that despite assurances from Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah that no deductions would be made, the reductions continued. He cited communication from the IRSA chairman pointing out that Sindh, not Punjab, was responsible for the deductions, which he deemed unjust to Balochistan.
Expressing frustration at the lack of resolution through diplomatic channels, Umrani disclosed that the province is now contemplating legal action against the Sindh government. He planned to discuss the situation with Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti to seek approval for pursuing legal remedies, affirming that Balochistan would uphold its water rights.
