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The Council of Common Interests (CCI) has endorsed the federal government’s new policy, stressing that no new canals will be built without full provincial consensus.
According to the decision, the federal government will not proceed on water projects until mutual understanding among all provinces is developed through proper consultations.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to engage all provincial governments to create a long-term, consensus-based roadmap for agriculture development and water infrastructure improvement across Pakistan.
Officials reaffirmed that water rights are protected under the Water Apportionment Accord of 1991 and the National Water Policy of 2018, backed by all stakeholders.
To address provincial concerns and ensure national food security, a new committee is being formed, with representatives from the federation and all four provinces.
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This committee will recommend solutions for Pakistan’s long-term agricultural growth and fair water use, in line with the two key consensus water agreements.
Water is a critical national resource, and the Constitution requires that all water-related disputes be resolved amicably with full consideration of every province’s concerns.
After extensive deliberations, the CCI agreed to return the provisional Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) approval given on 7 February 2024 for constructing new canals.
Additionally, the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) water availability certificate issued on 17 January 2024 will also be withdrawn, ensuring consultation with all provinces before taking any step forward.
The Planning Division and IRSA have been directed to work closely with all stakeholders to build national unity and protect Pakistan’s ecological security.
