Lahore: Mahfooz Shaheed Canal, being constructed on the Sutlej River, is the need of the hour for food security in Pakistan. The Canal, to be originated from Sulaimanki Head-Works, will exclusively utilize water from the Sutlej River and Punjab’s share under the Water Apportionment Accord 1991. It is a seasonal canal that will use excess floodwater. The canal will not take any water from the River Indus.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Indus River System Authority, having representation from all the provinces, accorded approval of the project. Mahfooz Shaheed Canal is a project of the Punjab Government for which a land of 1.2 million acres has been provided by the provincial government.

In view of climate change worldwide, comprehensive water management is essential in Pakistan, and under the Green Pakistan Initiative, Mahfooz Shaheed Canal will help irrigate barren land in the desert. Utilizing a modern irrigation system, the canal will deliver 4120 cusecs of water, supporting the growth of regionally suitable crops and fruits.

Agricultural experts have already pointed out that if additional canals are not built, Pakistan may face a food security crisis in the near future. They stressed the need for prioritizing national interest instead of becoming divided on projects that are extremely important for the country’s economy.