QUETTA, March 8: The Balochistan government was decided to ban the cultivation of rice in Nasirabad district, the only canal irrigated area of the province, in view of possible reduction in Balochistan’s water share from the Indus River.

According to official sources, the officials concerned of the irrigation and power department have asked the landowners and growers of the area that they should cultivate dry crops instead of rice, which needs more water.

“Rice crops of those Zamindars would be destroyed who would violate the canal act in this regard,” sources said and added that a sentence of imprisonment and fine could also be awarded to them.

The superintending engineer of Kirther and Pat feeder canal division has informed the growers irrigating their lands through the canals that due to serious water situation in Tarbela Dam and Indus River, water supply could be suspended in the next few days from the canals.

He said the growers should irrigate their crops before March 12 and should also store water for drinking and other propose so that they do not face any difficulties in case of suspension of water supply.

“In view of possible water shortage, the Zamindars should stop cultivation of rice crop in the area,” the superintending engineer warned.

Sources said that the provincial government was making all necessary arrangements to cope with reduction of Balochistan’s share from the Indus.