KARACHI: Pakistan’s federal government, led by PM Shehbaz Sharif and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, announced the cancellation of a controversial canal project on Thursday. The decision, set for formal ratification at a May 2025 Council of Common Interests (CCI) meeting, follows public opposition and provincial disputes over water rights.
Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah termed the move a “win-win” for national unity, stressing it was not politically driven. He criticized India’s recent attempts to sidestep the Indus Water Treaty, calling it a “non-serious” move under international law.
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The National Security Committee (NSC) also responded to India’s “hostile actions” by expelling India’s military attaché, closing borders, and blocking Indian airlines. The PPP and PML-N, holding a CCI majority, will redirect the project to the Indus River System Authority (IRSA). Shah urged protesters to disband, emphasizing solidarity amid tensions.
