F.P. Report
ISLAMABAD: New Delhi has finally accepted Pakistan’s request to inspect under-construction projects on Chenab basin, Federal Minister for Water Resources Faisal Vawda has announced.
“Due to our continued efforts there’s a major breakthrough…I’ve directed my team to visit and carry out inspection of projects from January 27 to February 1,” the minister tweeted on Friday.
He welcomed India’s gesture and expcted the “same spirit for resolution of other outstanding issues” between the nuclear arch-rivals.
The visiting delegation, led by Pakistan Indus Waters Treaty Commissioner Syed Mehr Ali Shah, will review Lower Kalnai, Pakal Dul hydropower projects.
Talks on the lingering water disputes between the longtime rivals were held in August last year, but ended without any major breakthrough.
Permanent Indus Commission, formed under the treaty signed between India and Pakistan in 1960 comprises of Indus commissioners for both the countries. The treaty provides for both the commissioners to meet at least once every year, alternately in India and Pakistan.
