-
-
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah clarified that President Asif Ali Zardari did not approve any canal project during a recent meeting.
Speaking at a press conference, Shah stated that the meeting minutes were misrepresented to suggest presidential approval.
“The president was briefed on irrigation and additional land cultivation, but the official record was altered,” he claimed.
Shah emphasized that any new canal project must first be discussed and approved by the Council of Common Interest (CCI). Sindh has already challenged the Indus River System Authority’s (IRSA) certification in the CCI.
READ: President Zardari warns govt over canals issue: Bilawal Bhutto
He further stated that Sindh has a complete record of water shortages in the Indus River.
“Our irrigation department is active, and no one can construct projects without proper approvals,” he said.
The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) recently discussed six canal projects without specifying Cholistan’s involvement, to which Sindh’s representatives objected.
Shah assured that Sindh’s government remains vigilant against unauthorized projects that could affect water distribution in the province.
