Federal Government Forms High-Level Committee to Address PPP Concerns Over Indus River Canals Project
PML-N Led Negotiations Aim to Resolve Political Deadlock, Ensure Consensus on Six Canals Initiative
Islamabad/Karachi – The federal government has established a high-powered negotiation committee, chaired by Senator Ishaq Dar, to address reservations raised by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and other stakeholders over the contentious Indus River Six Canals Project. The move signals an effort to forge political consensus on the mega-development initiative, which has sparked interprovincial tensions and protests in Sindh.
Key Details of the Negotiation Committee
- Leadership: Headed by PML-N stalwart Ishaq Dar, with members including Federal Minister for Water Resources Ahsan Iqbal, PM’s Political Advisor Rana Sanaullah, and technical experts in water and agriculture.
- Mandate: Engage PPP leadership (including President Asif Zardari and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari), address Sindh’s concerns, and propose solutions through technical and political dialogue.
- Approval: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will finalize the committee’s structure, with plans to personally meet PPP leaders to expedite resolution.
Background: Why the Six Canals Project Matters
The Indus River Canals Project aims to construct six new canals to enhance water distribution and agricultural productivity. However, the PPP-led Sindh government has opposed the plan, citing fears of water inequity, threats to provincial autonomy, and ecological risks. Protests in Sindh have escalated, with critics labeling the project “anti-farmer” and “divisive.”
PPP’s Core Concerns
- Water Rights: Allegations that the project could divert Sindh’s share of Indus waters to other provinces.
- Lack of Consultation: Claims of exclusion from planning and design stages.
- Ecological Impact: Demands for independent environmental assessments.
PML-N’s Strategy: Dialogue Over Confrontation
A senior PML-N leader confirmed to Express News:
“The party leadership, including Nawaz Sharif and PM Shehbaz, agreed to resolve this through negotiations rather than force. The committee will prioritize technical reviews and political outreach to build trust.”
- Meetings: Negotiations will occur in Karachi and Islamabad, with PM Shehbaz potentially convening a Council of Common Interests (CCI) session or an all-parties conference for broader consensus.
- Technical Evaluation: Independent experts will assess the project’s feasibility, design, and alignment with national water policies.
Next Steps
- Parliamentary Involvement: The government plans to brief Parliament to ensure transparency and seek cross-party support.
- Timeline: Talks are expected to begin imminently, with PML-N open to “adjusting its strategy” based on stakeholder feedback.
