Provincial President of Zamindar Association Haji Shabbir Umrani and leader Haider Khan Jamali expressed concern over the delayed sowing of paddy in Nasirabad and Jhal Magsi districts due to the unavailability of Balochistan’s water share from the Khirthar canal. Unfortunately, inadequate water supply has led to dried-up paddy plants, causing heavy financial losses to farmers.
The severe water crisis has also affected drinking water availability, with livestock dying of thirst and people struggling to find water in the scorching heat. The Sindh government and federal water distribution agency have been criticized for neglecting the issue, while Balochistan’s elected representatives have been called out for their inaction.
The farmers’ leaders are urging immediate action to resolve the water shortage and have planned to file a constitutional petition in the Supreme Court. They highlighted the need for officials to monitor water supply at the Sukkur Barrage and emphasized the importance of proactive measures in water management.
It is high time for authorities to address Balochistan’s water crisis before it escalates further, impacting the livelihoods of numerous farmers and residents in the region.
Published in Dawn, August 2nd, 2024