The continuous decline in water availability in Sindh and Balochistan is raising concerns about the agricultural sector, rural economy and food security. Water experts and irrigation department officials say that the water supply in the canal system is significantly less than the allocated share, which has raised concerns about the impact on crop cultivation and drinking water situation.
According to the latest data received from Sukkur Barrage, a total of 53,200 cusecs of water is allocated for various canals of Sindh, however, the current supply has been recorded at only 32,120 cusecs. Thus, the province is facing a total shortage of about 40 percent.
According to sources in the irrigation department, several canals on the right and left banks are under severe pressure. The situation is being described as most worrying in Dadu Canal where the water supply has reached a very low level compared to the allocated amount. Similarly, Nara, Rohri, Khairpur feeder and other important canals are also facing significant shortages.
Officials say that the impact of water shortage will not be limited to agricultural production but may also affect rural populations, livestock and the local economy. Continuous supply of water is considered essential, especially for the paddy crop, and the current situation is causing concern for farmers.
Balochistan is provided with a certain amount of water under the 1991 Water Agreement, however, due to the current decrease in flow, the province is not getting water according to its full requirements. The need to make the implementation of the established system for water distribution and monitoring at the inter-provincial level more effective is being emphasized.
The Sindh Irrigation Department has informed the relevant authorities about the situation and demanded immediate steps to ensure fair distribution of water among the provinces. According to officials, if the water shortage persists, its effects may significantly affect the upcoming agricultural season.
Experts say that Pakistan needs to further strengthen effective water management and inter-provincial cooperation in the context of increasing water needs, climate change and population growth. According to them, without better use of water resources, storage and promotion of modern irrigation systems, such crises can take on a more serious form in the future.
The situation in the agricultural areas of Sindh is being closely monitored, while the relevant institutions are continuously reviewing the issues of water availability and distribution to reduce the risks facing national food security and agricultural production.
