The first test for the imminent Federal Government of PML-N would be addressing the Kalabagh Dam, which was buried during the inept tenure of PPP. Mr Raja Ashraf of PPP took pride in burying KBD, now it is for Mr Nawaz Sharif to revive Kalabagh Dam to implement the objectives of his historic ‘Water Accord in 1999’ in which all provinces were given equal share, even though Punjab has bigger land share. Punjab has 73 percent of the irrigated crop area, while Sindh has only 15 percent, but Punjab accepted to equate with Sindh at 37 percent share in water. Now, if Mr Nawaz Sharif is able to construct KBD, by ensuring consensus on this vital project, his true mettle of statesmanship will be proved.
The choice is yours Mr Nawaz Sharif, as to what kind of legacy you would leave for Pakistan. Please remember the seven billion dollars yearly import of fuel for operating costly thermal power units which have destroyed the economy of Pakistan, with a Rs. 700 billion circular debt strangulating us! The nation expects a Herculean effort by you to revive KBD, which is the best option at the time, with all other options of water and power development being only a dream to put of energy starved masses of this delusional state.
DR M YAQOOB BHATTI,
Lahore, May 15.