Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has initiated a province-wide development campaign while strongly criticizing federal canal projects, which he considers a threat to Sindh’s water rights.

Addressing Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) workers in Thatta, Shah pledged significant development funds for each district and emphasized the need for community-driven projects.

Following directives from PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, CM started the campaign in Thatta and Sujawal, promising to visit every district in Sindh throughout April. He announced a minimum allocation of Rs 5 billion for development schemes in each district, with Rs 1 billion specifically for projects proposed by party workers.

To streamline the process, Shah plans to set up committees at the union council, taluka, and district levels to compile project proposals. Deputy Commissioners will prepare cost estimates for these proposals, with approved schemes included in the upcoming provincial budget. Emphasizing the importance of community-led planning, he set a 15-day deadline for Thatta and Sujawal to submit their project proposals.

Shah highlighted the government’s achievements in infrastructure, mentioning the newly constructed Karachi-Thatta Highway and updates on regional road projects. The Chief Minister also announced the operational status of Liaquat Medical University College in Thatta and reported on completed water channels to enhance irrigation in Thatta and Sujawal.

Regarding the contentious water issue, Murad Ali Shah condemned the Cholistan and Choubara canal projects, claiming they are politically motivated to divert Sindh’s water. He vowed to resist any attempts to construct these canals and stated that the PPP is the main barrier to such projects, as they oppose Sindh’s interests.

Murad recalled a clear message from PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to the Prime Minister on April 4: if the canal project is not canceled, support for the government will be withdrawn. Shah dismissed claims that the PPP had endorsed the canal projects and clarified that the party actively obstructed them.

The controversial proposal gained momentum during an Indus River System Authority (IRSA) meeting on January 17, 2024, under the caretaker government. Shah explained that the IRSA approved the proposal without verifying data, but the Sindh representative appointed by the PPP submitted a dissenting note.

Amid chants rejecting the canal projects, Shah accused opponents of running a smear campaign against the PPP. He reaffirmed the PPP’s commitment to safeguarding Sindh’s resources and clarified that the President of Pakistan does not have the authority to approve the proposed canal projects.

Discussing the Council of Common Interests (CCI), Shah pointed out the lack of credibility among those pushing for the projects, as they failed to secure CCI approval between 2018 and 2023. He emphasized the PPP’s legacy of sacrifices for the nation and warned of strict measures against the drug trade.

In conclusion, Shah announced that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will address a public gathering in Hyderabad on April 18, inviting everyone to show their support for Sindh and the PPP.