Protests Against Cholistan Canals Continue Across Sindh

Protests against the proposed Cholistan Canals project persisted across various towns and cities in Sindh on Friday, even as the province observed a public holiday to mark the death anniversary of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. The demonstrations, held under the slogan “No More Canals on Indus River,” underscored the growing dissatisfaction among the people of Sindh with the government’s handling of the issue.

The government of Sindh had announced the holiday to honor the legacy of the former Prime Minister, with senior leaders of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, expected to address rallies in Garhi Khuda Bux. However, despite assurances from the PPP leadership and the provincial government, protesters remained unconvinced, demanding concrete action to halt the canal project.

The Cholistan Canals project has sparked widespread outrage in Sindh, with critics arguing that it threatens the province’s water rights and agricultural sustainability. Protesters accuse the federal government of prioritizing Punjab’s interests at the expense of Sindh’s resources. Many view the PPP’s response as inadequate, alleging that the party has failed to take decisive steps to protect the province’s share of the Indus River waters.

Despite the public holiday and the presence of senior political figures in the province, the protests showed no signs of abating. Demonstrators gathered in cities like Hyderabad, Sukkur, Gambat, Shikarpur, Badin, Hala, Sakrand and Thatta, voicing their concerns and calling for a united stance against what they see as an existential threat to Sindh’s water security.

As tensions escalate, observers note that the issue has exposed a deep divide between the people of Sindh and their political representatives. While the PPP-led government has sought to reassure protesters, many feel that mere promises are insufficient without tangible measures to safeguard Sindh’s interests.

With emotions running high, the call for “No More Canals on Indus River” continues to resonate across the province, highlighting the urgency of addressing this contentious issue.

The coming days will be critical in determining whether the government can bridge the gap between its assurances and the demands of the people.