Protests Surge in Sindh Over Controversial Indus River Projects

Protests erupted across Sindh as activists from various parties opposed proposed canals and dams along the Indus River. Demonstrators condemned amendments to the IRSA Act, fearing federal overreach and unfair water distribution, particularly from Punjab. Tensions over water scarcity and regional grievances continue to escalate.

Protests erupted across Sindh as members of Awami Tehreek, Awami Workers Party, and Jeay Sindh Mahaz-Riaz staged sit-ins outside the Karachi Press Club and other cities. The demonstrations, Dawn reported, aimed to oppose proposed canals and dams along the Indus River, with protesters condemning recent amendments to the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) Act.

Protesters expressed concerns that these amendments could enable federal authorities to construct up to 30 dams, potentially violating international law and regional water agreements. They accused Punjab of exploiting its upper riparian status to deny Sindh essential water resources. The IRSA Act, established in 1992, regulates water allocation from the Indus River system among Pakistan’s provinces.

Despite assurances from the Pakistani government denying any legislative changes to the IRSA Act, water allocation remains a contentious issue, particularly between Punjab and Sindh. Sindh frequently accuses Punjab of over-extraction and mismanagement of water, exacerbating shortages. The 2010 floods and diminishing water availability have intensified these grievances, with activists demanding fair water access.