Federal Minister for Water Resources Javed Ali Shah and National Assembly members from Sindh on Wednesday exchanged harsh words on the issue of water availability in the province. The meeting was convened on the Speaker National Assembly's directives issued after discussion on a calling attention notice of Nawab Yousuf Talpur. Presently, the country is facing water shortage of 36 per cent due to which Sindh is facing acute shortage especially for being tail end area.
The IRSA officials explained that water shortage estimate for Rabi was 26 per cent but due to less rains, the shortage increased to 36 per cent. During discussion on water scarcity in the province, Members of National Assembly from Sindh pressurized IRSA officials, saying: "The IRSA should explain highhandedness with Sindh instead of giving briefing."
The secretary Water Resources was of the view if Sindh has reservations against water distribution mechanism, it can approach Council of Common Interests (CCI). However, Nawab Yousaf Talpur announced to walk out from the meeting against the attitude of IRSA after saying that IRSA should implement Water Accord 1991 in true letter and spirit. Member National Assembly Shazia Marri and Minister for Water Resources Syed Javed Ali Shah exchanged harsh words. She was of the view that the minister should give honour to the parliamentarians. The minister accused Marri of harassing him by using harsh language, requesting that the meeting should be allowed to proceed.
The chairman IRSA was of the view when sufficient water was available, why this issue was not raised by Sindh, which irritated the MNAs. "We need answers of questions, not briefing," they added. Former Chairman IRSA, who represented Punjab, stated that Pakistan will have to build Kalabagh Dam today or tomorrow. On this Nawab Yousaf Talpur said first separate Punjab from Pakistan and then Kalabagh Dam can be built. The meeting was further informed that KPK and Balochistan are getting water in accordance with Water Accord 1991.
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