Pakistan will defend its water rights, warns Sindh irrigation minister Jam Khan Shoro

Sindh's Irrigation Minister, Jam Khan Shoro, has issued a strong warning against any attempt to block or seize Pakistan's share of water, sa

Sindh’s Irrigation Minister, Jam Khan Shoro, has issued a strong warning against any attempt to block or seize Pakistan’s share of water, saying such actions would have serious consequences and violate international agreements governing shared water resources.

Shoro emphasized that water should never be used as a political or strategic weapon. He stated that restricting the flow of water allocated to Pakistan would be contrary to internationally recognized principles and existing treaties, warning that any such move could escalate tensions and have far-reaching consequences.

The minister stressed that Pakistan’s water rights are protected under international agreements and cannot be undermined without violating established legal obligations. He said any effort to interfere with the country’s rightful share of water would be viewed as a serious matter requiring an appropriate response.

Shoro also accused India of acting in violation of the Indus Waters Treaty by attempting to undermine Pakistan’s access to its allocated water resources. According to the minister, such actions amount to a deliberate effort to deprive millions of Pakistanis of a basic necessity and pose a significant threat to the country’s water security.

He claimed that India’s alleged attempts to interfere with water flows could affect nearly 240 million people in Pakistan, where agriculture, industry, and daily life depend heavily on the country’s river system. Describing water as a lifeline for the nation, Shoro said any disruption to its supply would have severe humanitarian, economic, and environmental consequences.

The minister reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to safeguarding its water rights through all available legal, diplomatic, and constitutional means. He said the government would take every possible step to ensure that the country’s share of water is protected in accordance with international law and existing agreements.

Shoro further noted that water security is directly linked to national security and food production. He explained that millions of acres of agricultural land rely on a consistent supply of river water, and any reduction in water availability could negatively affect crop yields, food security, and the livelihoods of farmers across the country.

He urged the international community to recognize the importance of respecting treaties governing transboundary rivers, stressing that agreements related to shared water resources must be honored by all parties. According to the minister, adherence to international commitments is essential for maintaining regional stability and preventing unnecessary disputes.

During the press conference, Shoro reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to protect its legitimate rights over shared water resources. He said the country would continue to pursue peaceful and lawful measures while remaining vigilant against any actions that could threaten its water interests.

The minister concluded by emphasizing that access to water is a fundamental necessity for every citizen and should never be manipulated for political purposes. He reiterated that Pakistan would firmly defend its water rights and would not tolerate any attempt to deprive its people of their legally allocated share.

His remarks come amid ongoing concerns over regional water management and underscore Pakistan’s position that existing international agreements must be respected to ensure the fair and equitable distribution of shared water resources.