12 Sep 2024 | 06:56 AM UTC
Pakistan: Regional parties call for protests in Sindh Province through late October over river water sharing
Political parties to protest across Sindh Province, Pakistan, through late October. Increased security likely; disruptions possible.
Regional political parties plan to stage protests across Sindh Province through at least late October to denounce proposed changes to the Indus River System Authority (IRSA). Critics argue that the modifications will reduce provincial autonomy and the water share of lower riparian areas. Leaders of various parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA), Jeay Sindh Mahaz-Riaz (JSM-R), Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), and Sindh Hari Tehreek are supporting the action. Planned events include:
Sept. 15: Rally at Shahpur Chakar in Sanghar District
Sept. 19: Provincewide rallies by the GDA
Sept. 20: Protest planned in Mirwah of Khairpur District
Sept. 22: Provincewide protests by the JSM-R
Oct. 8: Demonstration to occur in Tharparkar District
Oct. 20: Shutdown strike planned across Sindh Province
Other related rallies are possible across Sindh Province; higher attendance is likely in major urban centers, such as Hyderabad, Karachi, and Sukkur. Potential gathering sites include government buildings including the provincial assembly building in Karachi, press clubs, sports grounds, public squares, and thoroughfares. A few hundred activists may attend each event. Protest plans may change at short notice due to legal orders.
Authorities will almost certainly monitor any gatherings that materialize and may disperse overly disruptive crowds. Localized transport disruptions are likely, especially if demonstrators march along or block roadways. Officials in urban areas may implement enhanced measures, such as roadblocks and pedestrian checks, as a precaution. Clashes between police and activists, as well as between supporters of rival parties, are possible. Although shutdown strikes are unlikely to cause significant or widespread disruptions, limited interruptions to local businesses and public bus services cannot be ruled out.
Avoid all protests as a precaution. Do not navigate roadblocks due to the threat of violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Confirm transport reservations and business appointments, especially during shutdown strikes. Monitor trusted local media for protest details as organizers may not announce them in advance. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.
