Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said on Saturday that the need for new water reservoirs is vital for the progress and development of agriculture sector which encompasses two-third of the country's overall economy.
"The agriculture sector will progress only when abundant water resources are available in the country to cater to the growing water requirements of this sector," he said talking to media after his meeting with Pir Pagara at Kingri House.
Shaukat Aziz said construction of water reservoirs also came under discussion during meeting with Pir Pagara, who told him that whatever is in the country's interest must be undertaken. Emphasising that every province and growers should get their due share of water, the Premier said everyone would be taken along for construction of water reservoirs, which will bring great progress in the country.
Presently, he said, huge quantity of water is lost when it flows into the sea and not saved for our needs.
When asked about Kalabagh Dam, Shaukat Aziz said the construction of water reservoirs in general, was discussed with Pir Pagara who expressed his support to the government.
He said that Pir Pagara suggested a debate on the issue of construction of new dams and appreciated the government's decision to make public the reports of parliamentary and technical committees as well as report on the study of water downstream Kotri. The Prime Minister said highlights of these reports would also be published in Urdu, Sindhi. He said decision on construction of new dams will be taken after taking the people into confidence. Later, the Prime Minister met veteran politician Ghulam Mustafa Jatoi at his residence and discussed the overall political situation and issue of water reservoirs.
Shaukat Aziz said there is a consensus in the country about need to increase water storage capacity. "There is agreement in the country that building of more water reservoirs is critical for agricultural development as well as to ensure a better future for Pakistan."
He said the government has decided to publish the three reports on water reservoirs' issue and initiated a process of dialogue and consultation with all stakeholders. "The government believes in taking along all parties and all concerned are being taken into confidence." Shaukat Aziz said the government will do justice to all provinces and nobody will be deprived of due rights. Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad and Chief Minister Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim were also present in both meetings.