Indus Waters Treaty
On 23 April 2025, the Government of India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) after a deadly terrorist attack in Jammu & Kashmir. This major decision ends over 60 years of peaceful water-sharing between India and Pakistan, raising serious concerns for the region’s stability and future.
What is the Indus Waters Treaty?
The treaty was signed on 19 September 1960 by Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistani President Ayub Khan, with help from the World Bank. It shared control of six rivers between the two countries:
- India got the Eastern Rivers: Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej
- Pakistan got the Western Rivers: Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab
India could still use the Western Rivers for limited purposes like hydropower, navigation, and irrigation—under strict rules. Even during wars, the agreement held firm.
History of the Indus Water Treaty
The origins of the Indus Water Treaty trace back to the Partition of India in 1947, when the boundaries between India and Pakistan were redrawn, leaving the Indus River Basin as a crucial point of contention. The issues that arose were tied to the sharing of water from the Indus River and its five major tributaries: Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej, and Beas.
1. Partition and the Water Conflict: Post-partition, two important irrigation headworks at Madhopur and Ferozepur, which were critical to the irrigation systems of Punjab, fell under Indian territory, resulting in a water dispute. These headworks, which had been a part of the Indus Basin, were now geographically divided between India and Pakistan, escalating tensions over the equitable distribution of water resources.
2. Mediation by the World Bank: To resolve the dispute, the World Bank stepped in as a mediator, leading to a series of negotiations that culminated in the signing of the Indus Water Treaty in 1960. The treaty was signed by Mohammad Ayub Khan of Pakistan, Jawaharlal Nehru of India, and W.A.B. Iliff of the World Bank.
3. Key Terms of the Treaty: Under the treaty, Pakistan was allocated the western rivers (Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum), while India was given control over the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej). Both countries were allowed to make use of the waters from the rivers, with certain limitations. For example, India could construct hydroelectric projects on the western rivers, but subject to specific design constraints that would not affect the flow of water to Pakistan.
The Key Features of the Indus Water Treaty
The Indus Water Treaty established several important provisions to ensure the peaceful and cooperative sharing of water:
1. Water-Sharing Agreement:
2. Permanent Indus Commission: The treaty established a Permanent Indus Commission to ensure continued cooperation between the two nations regarding water usage. The commission holds annual meetings, where both parties exchange data, and resolve disputes through consultation.
3. Dispute Resolution Mechanism: The treaty includes a three-tier dispute resolution mechanism:
- Level 1: Disputes are first handled by the Permanent Indus Commission.
- Level 2: If unresolved, a Neutral Expert (appointed by the World Bank) steps in to resolve technical differences.
- Level 3: If disputes still persist, they are referred to an ad hoc arbitral tribunal known as the Court of Arbitration.
4. Data Exchange: Both countries are required to share data on the flow of water in rivers on a monthly basis. This allows for transparency and collaboration in water management.
A Treaty That Survived Decades of Tension
Despite wars and diplomatic conflicts, the treaty remained in place. It became a symbol of cooperation, helped by the Permanent Indus Commission, which handled regular meetings, inspections, and disputes.
Some major issues resolved under the treaty:
- Baglihar Project (2007) – Approved by a neutral expert
- Kishanganga Project (2013) – Allowed with some conditions
- Ratle Project – Still under legal dispute
Why Was the Treaty Suspended Now?
After a terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians, India blamed Pakistan-linked militants. India’s Cabinet Committee on Security said that the treaty could no longer continue in such conditions.
Tensions over Indian water projects like Kishanganga and Ratle have also increased. Pakistan says these reduce its water supply. India, on the other hand, says Pakistan has also broken treaty rules in other ways, like unauthorized groundwater use.
Why This Matters for Pakistan
Pakistan heavily relies on the Western Rivers for its drinking water, agriculture, and electricity. Dams like Mangla and Tarbela are essential for its survival.
If the treaty remains suspended, it could seriously hurt Pakistan’s economy, food supply, and energy—especially with climate change and population growth already putting pressure on its water system.
What Could Happen Next?
This could either be a temporary move to pressure Pakistan or a permanent end to the treaty. Experts say the treaty needs to be updated to reflect today’s challenges:
- Climate change
- Modern technology
- Higher water demand
- Environmental protection
But for now, the future of the treaty and river cooperation between the two countries is uncertain.
The Indus Waters Treaty was a rare success story in India-Pakistan relations. Its suspension is a warning sign of growing mistrust. As climate and security issues get worse, water could turn from a source of peace into a source of conflict.
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