Sindh Irrigation and Drainage Authority Act, 1997.

The Act provides for the establishment of an Authority responsible for the equitable distribution of irrigation water and effective drainage and flood control in the province of Sindh. The Sindh Irrigation and Drainage Authority shall be established as a body corporate in Hyderabad and shall consist of various government officers and a representative of farmer’s organizations (sect. 4). The overall control and guidance of the Authority shall be carried out by a Board of Management. Powers and duties of the Authority are outlined in section 8. The Authority shall receive water in basis of an agreement called the Water Apportionment Accord 1991 and distribute this water to Area Water Boards and other bodies and persons in the manner and under conditions prescribed by the Authority. Further the Authority shall formulate and implement water resources policies, create and operate waterworks, maintain records and registers, decide on disputes, and carry out research and development and other tasks with respect to promotion of water management.
Section 23 and following provide for the establishment and operation of Area Water Boards which shall carry out functions on behalf of the Authority and be controlled and directed by the Authority. The Authority and Area Water Boards shall be responsible for the formation of Farmers’ Organizations which shall be active in distribution of water, the drainage of effluent water, the operation of waterworks, and the collection of water charges.