BADIN — A growing water crisis in Badin is threatening this season’s rice harvest, as a shortage of canal water continues despite sufficient flow reported at Kotri Barrage.
Frustrated farmers have launched a sit-in protest, voicing anger over the lack of water in the Mirwah canal, which they say is drying out their fields and destroying their paddy crops. Many complained that they have already lost weeks of effort and money due to the dying crops, with some warning of complete failure if water is not restored soon.
“This is not just about farming—this is about our survival,” said one protester, sitting under the scorching sun alongside dozens of others. The farmers have vowed to continue their protest until authorities respond to their demands.
Their primary demand is the restoration of water flow in the Mirwah canal to its full capacity. Protest leaders are calling for the canal’s water level to be increased from the current 11.5 feet to 17.5 feet, and for the full allocation of 3,400 cusecs of water to be released immediately.
While the Kotri Barrage is reportedly receiving enough water, farmers allege mismanagement and unfair distribution are to blame for the acute shortage downstream. The crisis has renewed calls for urgent reforms in irrigation practices and equitable water sharing across Sindh.
With the paddy planting window closing fast, time is running out for Badin’s farmers—many of whom depend solely on this crop for their livelihood.
