The Indus Water Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan, remains a cornerstone of transboundary water management.
Overview of the Indus Water Treaty
The IWT governs the sharing of waters from the Indus River system, which includes six major rivers: the Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. Brokered by the World Bank, the treaty aimed to resolve water disputes after the 1947 Partition.
Key Provisions of the Treaty
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eastern Rivers | Ravi, Beas, Sutlej – Allocated to India for unrestricted use. |
| Western Rivers | Indus, Jhelum, Chenab – Allocated to Pakistan, with limited Indian use. |
| Permitted Uses | India can use Western Rivers for non-consumptive needs (e.g., hydropower). |
| Dispute Resolution | Permanent Indus Commission (annual meetings) and neutral expert arbitration. |
Historical Context and Significance
Partition Impact: Post-1947, water-sharing disputes arose as critical irrigation infrastructure fell on both sides of the new border.
World Bank Role: The treaty was finalized after nine years of negotiations, with financial support for dam construction in Pakistan.
Conflict Resilience: The treaty survived three wars (1965, 1971, 1999) and remains a rare example of bilateral cooperation.
Recent Developments (2025 Update)
In April 2025, India suspended the treaty following the Baisaran Valley Terrorist Attack, demanding Pakistan cease cross-border terrorism. Key implications include:
Unrestricted Infrastructure Projects: India can now build dams on Western Rivers without design restrictions.
Flood Data Sharing Halted: Pakistan may face challenges during monsoons without Indian flood forecasts.
Strategic Leverage: India’s move underscores water as a geopolitical tool in bilateral tensions.
Challenges and Criticisms
Climate Change: Melting glaciers and erratic rainfall strain the treaty’s 1960s-era framework.
Underutilization by India: Only 20% of the Indus system’s water is used by India, while Pakistan relies heavily on it.
Political Tensions: Disputes over projects like Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric plants highlight implementation hurdles.
