PESHAWAR / ISLAMABAD (RNN TV) — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed authorities to expedite the Diamer-Bhasha Dam project, warning that India’s move to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty poses a serious threat to Pakistan’s water security.
Speaking at a jirga in Peshawar’s Corps Headquarters, the PM called for inter-provincial consultations to expand the country’s water storage capacity and counter India’s “nefarious designs.” He said every drop of water under the treaty is Pakistan’s right and warned India against further aggression.
In a separate meeting on the dam, the premier linked Pakistan’s self-reliance to affordable energy and agricultural development, urging swift action to remove delays in completing the dam.
The Planning Ministry revealed the dam’s cost has escalated beyond the original Rs479 billion estimate due to delays. With Rs120 billion already spent on land acquisition, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal proposed separating the dam’s power component and seeking private investment to speed up completion.
The Diamer-Bhasha Dam is expected to store 6.4 million acre-feet of water and provide a major boost to energy and irrigation capacity.
NFC Meeting Set for August; KP to Continue Receiving Anti-Terror Funds
During the jirga, PM Shehbaz confirmed the next National Finance Commission (NFC) meeting will be held in August, adding that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) will continue to receive its 1% share from the divisible pool to combat terrorism. He said KP had received Rs700 billion so far under this arrangement.
He also pledged to form a committee to address the issues raised by KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, including compensation for displaced persons, restoration of the jirga system in tribal areas, and KP’s inclusion in Afghanistan peace talks.
KP CM Opposes Taxes in Ex-FATA, Demands Dues and NFC Share
CM Gandapur urged the federal government not to impose taxes in the merged tribal districts, citing widespread poverty and war impacts. He demanded the release of compensation funds for displaced persons and full disbursement of KP’s dues, including net hydel profit and tobacco cess.
He also called for the inclusion of tribal districts in the NFC award, saying, “We are not asking for anyone else’s share—just our rightful due.”
Source: Web Desk
PUJ welcomes formation of Commission for Protection of Journalists
LAHORE (RNN TV) — The Punjab Union of Journalists (PUJ) on Saturday expressed satisf…
CSS Exam 2026: Age Limit Relaxed, Essay Paper Gets New Focus
The Senate Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation has asked the Federal Public Service Commission …
