Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal announced on Saturday that the government will ensure the speedy completion of all hydro projects. This includes the strategically vital Diamer Bhasha Dam. He said the move is crucial to prevent India from exploiting the water situation.
Iqbal made the statement while speaking to a delegation of engineers led by Engr Ameer Zameer, Secretary General of the Institution of Engineers Pakistan (IEP). He confirmed that funds would be allocated on a priority basis for these projects.
India Plans Water Retaliation Over IIOJK Attack
Reports suggest that India is planning to drastically increase water usage from rivers that feed Pakistan’s agricultural heartlands. This comes as retaliation for an April attack on Indian tourists in Pahalgam, located in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
India blames Islamabad for the attack. In response, New Delhi suspended its participation in the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty. Despite a ceasefire agreed earlier this month, the treaty remains inactive.
Pakistan has firmly denied any role in the Kashmir incident. However, India’s plans to expand infrastructure on the Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers pose a serious threat. These rivers are part of the Indus Water Treaty, which guarantees Pakistan access to most of their water.
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Reuters reported that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed officials to fast-track projects that could divert water from these rivers to Indian territory.
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In a strong rebuttal, ISPR Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhary called Modi’s threat “an insane thought.” In an interview with Al Jazeera, he said only a madman would believe it is possible to cut off water to 240 million Pakistanis.
Impact on Agriculture and Energy
Experts say that around 80% of Pakistani farms depend on the Indus system. Nearly all of the country’s hydropower projects also rely on it. Water security expert David Michel said any major Indian infrastructure efforts would take years to complete, but the threat remains significant.
Addressing concerns about the delayed federal budget, Iqbal clarified that the delay is due to the prime minister’s foreign trip and Eid holidays. He strongly denied any pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
He assured that the upcoming budget will focus on relief for the people, particularly amid rising inflation and economic stress.
Iqbal also announced a paid internship programme for young engineers. He assured the delegation that their proposals would be reflected in the next budget. Additionally, he said the defence budget will be increased due to the country’s security situation.
Criticism of Imran Khan
On political matters, Iqbal said the nation is united following recent military successes. He criticised PTI founder Imran Khan for not appreciating the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
The planning minister concluded by asserting that the government will not make any move that damages national unity. He stressed that political stability and strong water security are essential for Pakistan’s future.
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