The Indus Waters Treaty: A Lifeline Between India and Pakistan

Introduction

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960, is one of the world’s most successful water-sharing agreements. Brokered by the World Bank, it governs the distribution of the Indus River system between India and Pakistan—two nations with a long history of conflict. Despite political tensions, the treaty has survived for over six decades, proving that cooperation over shared natural resources is possible.

Background: Why Was the Treaty Needed?

After the partition of British India in 1947, the newly formed nations of India and Pakistan found themselves in a dispute over the rivers of the Indus Basin. Since most rivers originated in Indian-controlled Kashmir but flowed into Pakistan, water access became a critical issue.

• Pakistan depended heavily on these rivers for agriculture (80% of its farmland).
• India, as the upstream country, could potentially control water flow, raising fears of droughts in Pakistan.

To prevent a water war, the World Bank intervened, leading to negotiations that culminated in the Indus Waters Treaty (1960).

Key Provisions of the Treaty

The treaty divides the six major rivers of the Indus Basin into two categories:

1. Eastern Rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) – Allocated to India for unrestricted use.
2. Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) – Primarily for Pakistan, but India can use them for limited irrigation and hydropower under strict conditions.

Dispute Resolution Mechanism

• Permanent Indus Commission: A bilateral body to resolve disputes.
• Neutral Expert/Arbitration: If talks fail, the World Bank can appoint mediators.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite its success, the treaty has faced multiple challenges:

• 1965 & 1971 Wars: Both nations honored the treaty despite hostilities.
• 2008 Mumbai Attacks & 2019 Pulwama Attack: India threatened to revise or exit the treaty but held back.
• Climate Change: Melting glaciers and erratic rainfall threaten water availability.
• China’s Role: As an upstream player in Tibet, China’s dam-building could impact the Indus flow.

Why Has the Treaty Survived?

• Technical Rather Than Political: The treaty focuses on water-sharing mechanics, not politics.
• Mutual Dependence: Pakistan needs water; India avoids being seen as a "water aggressor."
• International Backing: The World Bank’s role ensures accountability.

Future of the Treaty

• With climate change, population growth, and geopolitical tensions, the treaty may need updates. Possible solutions include:
• Joint hydropower projects (e.g., Tulbul Navigation Project).
• Data-sharing agreements on river flows.
• Expanding the treaty to include China and Afghanistan (part of the Indus Basin).

Conclusion

The Indus Waters Treaty is a rare example of peaceful cooperation in a region marred by conflict. While challenges remain, its survival proves that shared resources can transcend political disputes. As water scarcity grows, both nations must prioritize sustainability and diplomacy to keep this vital agreement alive.