Water Crisis Sparks Big Protests in Sindh, Pakistan

A major fight over water has started protests and anger in the Sindh province of southern Pakistan. People there are upset about a new canal project planned by the federal government under the Green Pakistan Initiative. This project aims to build six canals from the Indus River to supply water mainly to Punjab province.

Many people in Sindh believe this is unfair. They fear the canals will reduce the water they get from the Indus River, which they need for farming and drinking. They also say it breaks the 1991 Water Agreement that divides river water between provinces.

As a result, protests have erupted across Sindh. Roads have been blocked, government offices have been attacked, and protestors even set fire to the house of Sindh’s Home Minister. Sadly, two people died during clashes with police. The situation has caused big problems for travel and public safety in the region.

Some protesters are also demanding more control over their resources, with slogans like “Sindhudesh” (meaning an independent Sindh) being shouted during the protests.

Environmental experts are also warning that the project could hurt the Indus Delta, an important area for wildlife and farming. If the river water flow decreases, it could cause sea water to move inland, ruining crops and villages.

After seeing the protests, the central government has decided to pause the project for now and talk to all provinces before making a final decision.

This crisis shows that people in Sindh feel they are not being treated fairly. The government now needs to take steps to make sure water is shared equally and all provinces are heard, so that peace and unity can be maintained in the country.