PPP is expected to clarify its stance on canals projects on April 4
Proposed canals file foto
KARACHI, March 30,2025- The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) is expected to make an important announcement and clarify its stance on the controversial canals on April 4 in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, during the death anniversary commemoration of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
President Asif Ali Zardari arrives at Zardari House on Monday to celebrate Eid with family and hold crucial consultations with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leadership regarding the contentious Indus River canal projects, sources confirmed.
The President’s visit comes amid growing tensions between Sindh and Punjab over water distribution, with Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah issuing a stern warning that his government would “go to any lengths” to stop the Cholistan canal project.
President Zardari will chair high-level PPP meetings on proposed Six Canal Project and expected to announce party’s official stance at April 4 rally in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh. The event marks death anniversary of PPP founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
Sindh’s Ultimatum
CM Murad Ali Shah on Saturday demanded immediate CCI meeting to resolve water dispute. He revealed, Punjab hasn’t utilized Rs45 billion allocated for Cholistan project.
Sindh CM warned that project cost has ballooned from Rs218 to Rs225 billion.
Water Crisis Data
Tarbela Dam at full capacity only 17 days in past 25 years
Mangla Dam reached capacity just 4 days in same period
Questions raised about feasibility of new irrigation projects
Political Fallout
PPP rejects opposition calls to destabilize federal government
Sindh allocates 54,000 acres for Green Pakistan Initiative
Offers partnership on Hyderabad-Sukkur Motorway project
CM Shah’s Statement:
“We possess the strength to stop Cholistan, but prefer dialogue. This isn’t just Sindh’s fight – it’s about Pakistan’s water security,” the Chief Minister told reporters at CM House, adding that three provinces already oppose the project.
Next Steps:
All eyes now turn to the April 4 gathering where President Zardari is expected to unveil PPP’s strategy, potentially escalating the confrontation between Sindh and federal authorities over water rights.
Background:
The dispute stems from Punjab’s Cholistan canal plan and federal government’s proposed Indus River projects, which Sindh claims will exacerbate its water shortages. PPP has already organized protests across the province, with tensions reaching new heights ahead of the planting season.
