The Supreme Court Monday sought a comprehensive report from the federal government on the steps taken to overcome the water shortage in the country. The issue of construction of new dams and water shortage is abuzz in media and social media. Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar stated: "Water is the basic right of our children; therefore, it should top the list of our priorities." He observed that due to construction of Kishenganga Dam by India, the Jhelum River water is reduced. "If we fail to provide water to our children then what could happen," he questioned.
A three-member bench was hearing suo motu of acute shortage of water supply throughout the country. The CJP fixed the matter in the court with regard to water problem at Islamabad and subsequently at respective Branch Registries of the apex court with regard to water shortage at Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar and Quetta.
Barrister Zafar, who had filed the petition regarding scarcity of water in the country, said the prevailing situation of water is worrisome. He said Pakistan's 20 per cent progress depends upon water but for the last 48 years no new dam has been constructed in the country.
The Chief Justice remarked, "Keep one thing in mind that from today onward, water will be among out top priorities."
Justice Tariq Masood said that no political party has priority to resolve the water issue with India.
The Chief Justice said that none of the party has mention of water issue in their manifestoes, adding no issue could be more important than water.
The matter regarding scarcity of water supply in Islamabad has been fixed in the court on June 7. Moreover, notices have been issued to attorney general for Pakistan, advocate general Islamabad, secretary CADD, mayor Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad, chief commissioner Islamabad and chairman CDA.