SIDA Chairman Demands Removal of IRSA Chief Over Sindh Water Crisis

Qabool Mohammad Khatian, Chairman of the Sindh Irrigation and Drainage Authority (SIDA), has accused the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) of reducing Sindh's water share. He demanded the immediate removal of the IRSA chairman. This demand comes amid a severe water crisis in Sindh province. Khatian stated that IRSA's actions threaten agriculture and livelihoods in the region. He also warned that water scarcity could lead to social unrest.

Sindh is Pakistan's second-largest province, heavily dependent on the Indus River for agriculture. IRSA is a federal body regulating water distribution among provinces. In recent years, water shortages have worsened due to reduced water resources and climate change. Khatian alleged that IRSA arbitrarily cut the water allocated to Sindh. This has caused farmers to be unable to irrigate crops and led to drinking water shortages.

Khatian claimed that the IRSA chairman is biased and makes decisions favoring other provinces. He called on the federal government to restructure IRSA and establish a transparent water distribution mechanism. He also emphasized that Sindh's water rights should be constitutionally guaranteed. This demand has gained widespread support within the province.

The water crisis has severely impacted agricultural production in Sindh. Yields of key crops like cotton, wheat, and sugarcane have declined. Farmers are falling into debt, and unemployment is rising in rural areas. Experts warn that poor water management could threaten food security in the long term. Khatian's outcry aims to draw attention to these issues.

Water sharing is a constant source of tension among Pakistani provinces. Disputes often arise between Punjab and Sindh over water allocation. Khatian's demand could escalate this tension. The federal government's response is eagerly awaited. Meanwhile, water scarcity continues to negatively affect daily life in Sindh.