CHOLISTAN: The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) has approved the supply of water for the Cholistan project. Cholistan, also known as the Rohi Desert, is a large desert in Punjab, Pakistan, and forms part of the greater Thar Desert.
According to a private TV channel report, IRSA’s Secretary issued a water availability certificate to the Punjab government. After IRSA’s approval, the Punjab government will draw water from the Sulemanki Headworks into the Cholistan Canal.
Authorities at IRSA stated that 450,000 acres of water will be available for the Cholistan project.
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On the other hand, IRSA’s Sindh member Ehsan Laghari has expressed disagreement with the decision. He wrote a dissenting note stating disagreement with IRSA Secretary’s approval for water supply to the Cholistan project. He believes issuing a water availability certificate to the Punjab government is unfair to Sindh.
Laghari further added that the water availability mentioned by IRSA’s Secretary is not just from the Sulemanki Headworks but also includes water diverted via the Link Canal.
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It’s worth noting that the ‘Green Pakistan’ initiative was launched in Cholistan recently with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Army Chief General Asim Munir in attendance.
The inauguration included the launch of Green Agri Mall and Services Company, Smart Agri Farm, and Agricultural Research and Services Center. The Green Agri Mall and Services Company will provide farmers with quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.
Meanwhile, various groups in Sindh are protesting against projects that involve diverting rivers from the Indus River in the province.
In another update, the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) has declared an emergency in Rawalpindi due to a worsening water crisis caused by drought. The ongoing dry spell has led to a severe shortage, and officials warn that if February and March pass without rain, the situation could become more critical.
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Wasa Managing Director (MD) Saim Ashraf said the Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted below-average rainfall, which may further worsen the crisis.
He added that the growing population and commercial activities have reduced water reserves, making distribution more challenging. Rawalpindi’s water demand is 68 million gallons per day, but only 51 million gallons are available.
