Cholistan Canal Project

April 26, 2025

Recently, Pakistan announced the suspension of the Cholistan Canal Project due to escalating tensions with India and growing internal dissent. This decision followed India’s unilateral move to hold the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance.

Project Details

The Cholistan Canal Project is part of Pakistan’s Green Pakistan Initiative, aimed at transforming the Cholistan Desert into arable land. The project includes the construction of six canals to irrigate over 1.2 million acres in southern Punjab. It is expected to enhance food security, create jobs, and develop agricultural hubs. The project is backed by the Pakistan Army and aims to increase agricultural productivity.

Controversy and Opposition

The project has faced backlash, particularly from the Sindh province. Sindh leaders argue that the canals violate the 1991 Water Apportionment Accord, which allocates water rights among provinces. The Sindh Assembly has passed resolutions opposing the project, denoting the growing inter-provincial tensions.

Environmental Concerns

Environmentalists have raised alarms about the potential ecological impact of the Cholistan Canal Project. Concerns include reduced freshwater flow to the Indus Delta and threats to local biodiversity. The project could exacerbate existing environmental issues, such as desertification and increased salinity, which would further affect agricultural productivity in Sindh.

Indus Waters Treaty

The IWT governs water sharing between India and Pakistan. Under the treaty, India controls the eastern rivers, while Pakistan manages the western ones. The suspension of the IWT by India raises questions about water allocation and security for Pakistan. Critics argue that Pakistan’s reliance on the IWT has made it vulnerable to external pressures.

Domestic Water Crisis

Pakistan is one of the most water-stressed countries globally. The nation withdraws approximately 75% of its renewable water resources. Sindh faces a severe water shortage, with estimates suggesting a 40-45% annual deficit. This crisis has intensified debates over water rights and resource management, further complicating the Cholistan Canal Project.

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