KARACHI: Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has sought German technology and technical assistance for cleaning Manchhar Lake and improving canal lining to conserve irrigation water.

The chief minister expressed the desire during a meeting with German Consul General Thomas E. Schultze at CM House on Wednesday.

Over the past 25-30 years, freshwater inflows into the Manchhar Lake declined due to upstream diversions, dams and low rainfall.

The lake has become dependent on highly polluted waterfrom Main Nara Valley Drain (MNVD) and Right Bank Outfall Drain (RBOD), which carry agricultural, industrial and municipal effluent from industrial areas.

Described as `Asia`s largest freshwater lake`, the water body has now turned toxic for years due to shortage of freshwater influx and discharge of effluent, collapsing fisheries and leading to waterborne diseases among the area people.

The meeting discussed matters related to President Asif Ali Zardari`s upcoming visit to Germany, in which the chief minister will be part of the delegation. Matters related to bilateral relations, trade, investment and development cooperation would be on the agenda.

The chief minister said that he wanted to utilise German technology to clean the water of Manchhar Lake and stressed the need for effective solutions to improving water quality.

The German consul general assured cooperation in explor-ing technological solutions for the lake`s restoration and purification.

Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Investment Syed Qasim Naveed and Secretary to the CM Asif Jameel were also present on the occasion.

The chief minister also emphasise d improving canal lining to prevent loss of irrigation water and ensure its efficient delivery to farmers, saying that modern technology and improved canal infrastructure could help reduce wastage and improve agricultural productivity.

Mr Schultze acknowledged the importance of the initiative and said that German technology and expertise could contribute to reducing irrigation losses and improving water distribution.

Mr Shah directed Special Assistant Syed Qasim Naveed to pursue discussions with relevant German institutions and explore avenues for practical cooperation.The meeting also reviewed programmes of the German development agency GIZ and various development cooperation projects in the province. Both sides discussed opportunities for increased German investment, technical support and partnerships.

The chief minister underscored the importance of further strengthening relations between Sindh and Germany, highlighting potential for expanded economic cooperation and new investment to support the province`s development. He said greater collaboration could contribute to economic growth and effective implementation of key projects.

The German consul general said that Germany was interested in exploring opportunities for cooperation with Sindh in various fields.

The meeting also discussed ways to expand trade links, promote mutual economic interests and identify new avenues for collaboration.