Water Wars in Pakistan: Sindh Protests Escalate as Home Minister’s House Burned

Violent protests erupted in Pakistan’s Sindh province on Tuesday as outrage over a controversial canal project on the Indus River reached a boiling point, culminating in the burning of Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar’s residence.

The unrest, centered in the city of Moro in Naushahro Feroz district, saw demonstrators—primarily from nationalist groups—set fire to the minister’s house, vandalize property, and torch vehicles. The protests also led to the blockade of the National Highway and violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement.

Root Cause: The Controversial Canal Project

The protests stem from fears that the new canal construction, part of the federal government’s “Green Pakistan Initiative,” will divert water from the Indus River—Sindh’s lifeline—to agricultural lands in Punjab’s Cholistan region. Sindh, a lower riparian province, already faces severe water shortages, and residents fear the project will exacerbate droughts and harm agriculture.

Key Facts & Figures:

• Sindh contributes 70% of Pakistan’s total fish catch and 62% of rice production, making water diversion a critical threat to livelihoods.
• The Indus River provides 90% of Sindh’s agricultural water, with declining flows already causing desertification in Thar and other regions.
• The Sindh Assembly passed a unanimous resolution against the canal project in March 2025, but protests continued due to distrust in federal assurances.
• On April 28, 2025, the Council of Common Interests (CCI) announced a pause on the project, but protesters demand a formal cancellation.

Escalation of Violence

Protesters, including members of Jeay Sindh Qaumi Mahaz (JSQM) and other nationalist groups, clashed with police, who responded with baton charges and live fire. Reports confirm:

• 1 protester killed (identity unconfirmed)
• Multiple injured, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)
• Two trailers set ablaze near the protest site

Home Minister’s Response

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar confirmed the attack on his residence and vowed “iron-fisted action” against those challenging the state’s authority. He has ordered:

• A detailed report from the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Naushahro Feroze
• Additional police deployments to restore order

Political & Environmental Implications

The canal dispute reflects longstanding inter-provincial tensions over water distribution in Pakistan. Sindh alleges that Punjab-dominated federal policies prioritize its water needs at Sindh’s expense.

Public Sentiment & Future Outlook

• Sindhi nationalists demand complete abandonment of the canal project.
• Legal challenges are expected if the federal government proceeds without provincial consent.
• Human rights groups warn of further unrest if grievances remain unaddressed.

The torching of the Home Minister’s house marks a dangerous escalation in Sindh’s water crisis. With emotions running high and distrust of federal assurances deepening, the situation risks further instability unless a negotiated, legally binding solution is reached.

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