PAKISTAN has always raised its voice for water rights in its interaction with the neighbour in the east. This is, indeed, the right thing to do because life is unimaginable without water. When it comes to matters within the country, however, Sindh is expected to survive without water. Everybody knows it is not possible, but the efforts continue. I wonder what the actual purpose of such efforts is.

The plan to construct even more canals on the Indus River is a disaster waiting to happen. Sindh is already grappling with a severe water shortage, but, instead of addressing the crisis, new canals are being planned.

Such projects might work in resource-rich countries with the infrastructure and finances to support them. But we are putting lives and livelihoods at risk.

The silence in most parts of the country is deeply concerning. It seems as if it is a matter concerning Sindh alone.

If Sindh is being denied its lifeline today, the other provinces should stand right beside it. It is a national crisis, and it must be treated as such. It is time to hear the voices coming out of Sindh.

Airaf Najeebullah
Khairpur Mirs

Published in Dawn, April 17th, 2025