We are grateful to the Prime Minister for convening the meeting today instead of May 2 — Murad Ali Shah
Federal government will not build any canal without consensus in CCI — Chief Minister Sindh
Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah stated that the Prime Minister had said after their first meeting that canals would not be built. He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for convening the meeting today instead of May 2. Speaking to the media after the CCI meeting, he said that the federal government will not build any canals without consensus in the Council of Common Interests (CCI), and further work on canals has also been halted.
He emphasized that the federal government will develop a water usage plan in consultation with all provinces, and the 1991 agreement will be fully implemented. Water disputes will be resolved immediately. The CCI has revoked the interim approval for seven canals and withdrawn permission for the Cholistan Canal. The Planning Division and IRSA have been directed not to bring these projects to any forum without consensus.
Murad Ali Shah further stated that the Sindh government fought the case of the canals in a constitutional manner. “I have always said that the canals will not be built. We were certain that when no funds were allocated, the canals couldn’t be built. Even President Zardari was dragged into this issue, and despite clarifications, attempts were made to criticize him.”
He added that propaganda had been spread against the government in Sindh. “It has never happened in history that the CCI has rejected a project. I strongly appeal that the protests be ended immediately. After this decision, no canal will be built without consensus. Those who spread hatred have failed today.”
