Omar Abdullah Rejects Canal Project, Cites Water Scarcity in J&K

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has voiced his opposition to a proposed canal project aimed at supplying water to Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Speaking in Jammu, Abdullah stated that the state is facing drought-like conditions and lacks the resources to provide water to Punjab. He emphasized that J&K would prioritize its own water needs first. The Chief Minister’s stance has sparked controversy, with the Shiromani Akali Dal expressing disappointment. Abdullah also highlighted that Punjab already benefits from the Indus Water Treaty and that Jammu and Kashmir received no assistance when it required water. The proposed canal is 113 km long and has faced strong resistance from the J&K government.