DW BUREAU / Chandigarh/Fazilka

Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal today asserted that Punjab's agricultural fields cannot be allowed to dry up merely to divert water to other states.

Speaking to reporters here, the Cabinet Minister affirmed that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government will take all necessary measures to safeguard the state's water resources. He said that Punjab will, under no circumstances, permit the exploitation or unfair diversion of its water.

Goyal said that Punjab's position on the water issue is unequivocal that the state will not relinquish its rightful share. He noted that Haryana is already drawing water exceeding its allocated quota, adding that Punjab will not yield to pressure from the Central government or Haryana.

Responding to another query regarding the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), the Cabinet Minister clarified Punjab's stance, stating that while Punjab will participate in BBMB meetings convened according to established protocols, it will refuse to attend any meeting called at the behest of the Centre disregarding or Flouting established rules and regulations.

He added that the Punjab government has convened a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on May 5 to address the water issue, during which a definitive strategy will be formulated to protect the state's interests.

Meanwhile, farmers from the Fazilka district met with Cabinet Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal to celebrate and offer him sweets following the approval of the Rs.647.43 crore Firozepur Feeder canal project. The farmers expressed their gratitude towards the Punjab government, acknowledging its instrumental role in securing the project's sanction.

The Cabinet Minister said that the capacity enhancement and relining of the Firozepur Feeder will ensure an adequate supply of canal water for farmers in Fazilka, Firozepur, Sri Muktsar Sahib and Faridkot districts. Besides this, it will provide relief to the border areas of Fazilka district from the polluted 'black water' emanating from the Kasur

drain in Pakistan.

(editor@dailyworld.in)