Balochistan–Sindh Water Dispute Intensifies as Quetta Claims 46% Shortfall in Canal Supply

Quetta: The long-standing water dispute between Balochistan and Sindh has intensified after the Balochistan government alleged that it is receiving significantly less than its allocated share of canal water.

Officials say the province is currently facing a 46% shortfall, raising concerns over agriculture, irrigation, and inter-provincial coordination on water distribution.

According to Beyond Time News, the provincial government is now considering legal action after repeated attempts to resolve the issue through administrative channels failed.

Reported Shortfall in Water Supply

Officials from Balochistan’s irrigation department say the province is receiving far less water than its approved allocation.

Key figures include:

• Allocated share: 0.678 million acre-feet (MAF)
• Current supply: 0.365 MAF
• Shortfall: 0.310 MAF (around 46%)

At canal-level measurements, the gap is also significant:

• Required flow at RD-109: 6,700 cusecs vs 4,096 cusecs supplied
• Required flow at RD-102: 2,400 cusecs vs 1,050 cusecs supplied

Officials say the shortage is impacting irrigation systems and agricultural output in several districts.

Accusations of Reduced Releases

Balochistan authorities allege that the reduction in water supply is occurring despite improved river flows reported by water management bodies.

They argue that the cuts are being made at the distribution level in Sindh, resulting in reduced inflows reaching downstream canals in Balochistan.

According to Beyond Time News, officials say the situation has persisted even after multiple complaints and formal correspondence with relevant authorities.

Efforts to Resolve the Dispute

Balochistan’s irrigation department says the issue has been repeatedly raised with:

• Federal Ministry of Water Resources
• Sindh Irrigation Department
• Indus River System Authority (IRSA)
• Provincial leadership in Sindh

Officials claim that discussions and written communications have not resulted in any improvement in supply levels.\

IRSA Releases 306,000 Cusecs of Water as River Inflows Rise Across Pakistan

Political Engagement Between Provinces

Balochistan Chief Minister reportedly contacted his Sindh counterpart to address the issue, and initial assurances were given that no deductions would be made from Balochistan’s share.

However, provincial officials claim that water reductions continued despite those assurances.

The dispute has now reached a level where Balochistan is openly considering legal options to secure its allocated share.

IRSA Role and Technical Position

Water management authorities have reportedly clarified that reductions are not being made at the federal level.

According to provincial statements, IRSA has indicated that Sindh’s irrigation system is responsible for the adjustments affecting downstream supply.

This technical disagreement has added complexity to the dispute, making resolution more difficult.

Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods

The water shortage is expected to have serious consequences for agriculture in Balochistan, where farming depends heavily on canal irrigation.

Reduced water availability can lead to:

• Lower crop yields
• Reduced cultivation area
• Increased rural economic pressure
• Water stress in arid regions

Farmers in affected districts are already reporting difficulties in maintaining irrigation schedules.

Possible Legal Action

Provincial officials say legal proceedings are now being seriously considered if the issue is not resolved through administrative coordination.

Authorities maintain that Balochistan will continue to pursue its constitutionally allocated water share and protect its irrigation rights.

Conclusion

The growing water dispute between Balochistan and Sindh highlights ongoing tensions over resource distribution in Pakistan’s irrigation system.

With a reported 46% shortfall and no immediate resolution in sight, the issue is now moving from administrative dialogue toward potential legal confrontation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main issue in the Balochistan–Sindh water dispute?

Balochistan claims it is receiving 46% less canal water than its allocated share.

How much water is Balochistan supposed to receive?

Its allocated share is 0.678 million acre-feet (MAF), but it is receiving about 0.365 MAF.

Why is the dispute happening?

Balochistan officials say water reductions are occurring in Sindh’s distribution system despite improved river flows.

What action is Balochistan considering?

The provincial government is considering legal action to secure its water rights.

Which body manages water distribution in Pakistan?

The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) oversees water allocation among provinces.

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