Power cuts: president urges transparency

President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday expressed concern over the weaponisation of water by India by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty. He expressed the views while chairing a meeting on water resources management at Aiwan-e-Sadr. The meeting reviewed issues related to water availability, governance and regional developments affecting Pakistan's water security. The president noted that the attempt to use water as a political tool was a matter of serious consequence, emphasising the importance of safeguarding Pakistan's water rights and ensuring that all necessary diplomatic and legal measures are pursued. Addressing the issue of energy shortfalls linked to the regional situation, the president directed that all possible efforts be made to minimise load shedding across the country. He stressed that any load management should be carried out strictly in a transparent and declared manner, in line with prior public announcements, so that citizens are fully informed and disruption is reduced. The president also directed authorities to accelerate water conservation efforts across the country. He called for the swift implementation of rainwater harvesting initiatives at domestic, commercial, and industrial levels, and directed that construction of small dams, recharge wells, and water storage infrastructure be expedited. The president emphasised that conserving water is a national imperative, particularly in the current regional climate. The meeting also discussed broader regional developments. The president noted that stability in the region remains essential and expressed confidence that, with constructive engagement and sustained efforts by Pakistan, a workable path forward in the evolving situation involving Iran could be achieved. Sindh governor President Asif Ali Zardari directed the Governor Sindh to work with the government and other social, political and business organisations of the province to fully reflect the aspirations of the federal government in the province. Governor Sindh Nehal Hashmi called on the president here at Aiwan-e-Sadr, a Presidency's news release said. During the meeting, matters relating to the overall political situation, particularly those concerning Sindh, came under discussion. The president emphasised that steps should be taken to ensure effective governance and public welfare in the province.