🏞️ Introduction
The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) is one of the most enduring
water-sharing agreements in the world. Signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan,
this treaty governs the use of waters from the Indus River system, which flows
through both nations. Despite multiple wars and diplomatic stand-offs, the
treaty has survived for over six decades.
📜 Background of the Treaty
Signed on: September 19, 1960
Signatories:
India (Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru)
Pakistan (President Ayub Khan)
Brokered by: The World Bank
🌊 The Indus River
System:
Total 6 major rivers:
Western Rivers: Indus, Jhelum, Chenab
Eastern Rivers: Ravi, Beas, Sutlej
📑 Key Provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty
Allocation of Rivers:
Eastern Rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) allocated to India
Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) allocated to Pakistan
Water Usage Rights:
India can use Western rivers for:
Non-consumptive purposes (e.g., hydropower, navigation,
agriculture)
Limited irrigation and hydro projects under strict technical
constraints
Dispute Resolution Mechanism:
Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) for annual meetings
In case of disputes:
Technical discussions → Neutral expert → Arbitration court
⚔️ Historical Disputes Under IWT
Baglihar Dam Dispute (2005) – Resolved by neutral expert,
allowed India to proceed with design modifications.
Kishanganga Project Dispute (2010-2013) – Taken to the
Permanent Court of Arbitration; India won the right to divert water but had to
ensure minimum flow to Pakistan.
Ratle Hydropower Project – Pakistan raised objections citing
treaty violations; still under scrutiny.
📰 Present Scenario (As of 2025)
🌐 Geopolitical Context
India-Pakistan relations remain tense after the 2019
Pulwama-Balakot episode and cross-border ceasefire violations.
The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 worsened diplomatic
ties, with Pakistan accusing India of changing Kashmir's status quo.
🌊 Water as a Strategic Tool
In response to Pakistani support for terrorism, some Indian
officials hinted at reviewing or modifying the treaty.
In 2023, India issued a notice to Pakistan for renegotiating
the treaty framework, citing delays in dispute resolution and asymmetry in
water usage rights.
🔍 Current Developments
Climate change and glacier melt are increasing flood risks
and reducing long-term water availability.
Hydropower projects on the Chenab and Jhelum rivers (like
Pakal Dul, Sawalkot, Ratle) are progressing despite Pakistani objections.
The World Bank has urged both nations to resolve issues
through dialogue and treaty mechanisms.
🤔 Why Is the Treaty Still Relevant?
Ensures predictable water supply to Pakistan’s
agriculture-based economy.
Helps India maintain its image as a law-abiding nation.
Avoids water wars in an already volatile region.
Acts as a confidence-building measure (CBM) between
nuclear-armed neighbors.
🛠️ Challenges Ahead
|
Challenge |
Impact |
|
Climate change |
Uncertain river flows, glacier retreat |
|
Political mistrust |
Undermines cooperation |
|
Infrastructure race |
Competition over dams/hydropower |
|
Treaty rigidity |
Modern needs not covered in 1960 terms |
💡 Expert Opinion
Reforms, not revocation: Experts advocate for revisiting
certain clauses rather than scrapping the treaty.
Third-party facilitation: World Bank's role is crucial but
needs stronger enforcement powers.
Regional water cooperation: Suggested as a future path for
South Asian stability.
✅ Conclusion
The Indus Waters Treaty remains a cornerstone of Indo-Pak
relations. While strained, the treaty has held strong even through wars and
terrorism. As the region faces new environmental and political challenges,
there is a need for dialogue, modernization of terms, and a shared commitment
to sustainable water use.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can India stop water to Pakistan?
➡️ Only on Eastern rivers. On Western rivers, only
limited restrictions are allowed under the treaty.
Q2: Has the treaty ever been suspended?
➡️ No. It has remained operational since 1960.
Q3: Who manages the treaty implementation?
➡️ The Permanent Indus Commission, with
representatives from both countries.