PESHAWAR – In response to the growing water crisis in Pakistan, the federal government has declared it a national emergency. It has also called an urgent meeting with all provinces to develop a joint strategy.
The move comes amid rising concerns over India’s violations of the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960.
According to the Ministry of Water Resources, India is releasing and withholding river water without coordination. This has disrupted Pakistan’s irrigation systems. As a result, the country’s agriculture and environment are now under serious threat.
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Moreover, the ministry’s letter described India’s actions as aggressive. It warned that these actions could amount to a form of war. The letter added that Pakistan would defend its water rights on every platform, if necessary.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has summoned a high-level meeting for 4 July. Chief secretaries from all provinces have been invited. The goal is to reach a national consensus on how to respond to the water crisis in Pakistan.
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In preparation for the meeting, all stakeholders must submit proposals and possible solutions. These may be included in the upcoming federal budget. Therefore, the government has asked provinces to act without delay.
The letter also emphasized the urgency of a united stance. It noted that India’s increasingly assertive behavior cannot be ignored.
Consequently, the federal government has urged all parties to show solidarity. It called for cooperation, similar to the unity shown in past national challenges.
