Inside the waterline between two uneasy neighbours

The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, has served as a crucial framework for managing water sharing between India and Pakistan for over six decades. This treaty, brokered after a decade of negotiations, has weathered numerous conflicts and diplomatic tensions since its inception. However, recent developments have brought the treaty's longevity into question, particularly following India's announcement to place the treaty in abeyance after the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists.

India attributed the attack to militants and identified Pakistani nationals among the assailants, while Pakistan vehemently denied any involvement.

In May 2025, the heightened tensions culminated in a military confrontation, with India launching Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. Despite several days of skirmishes, the two nations eventually agreed to cease military activities. However, the Indus Waters Treaty remained suspended. In August 2026, the Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled that the treaty remained in force and mandated that India adhere to its obligations under the pact.

India, however, rejected the ruling, arguing that the panel lacked jurisdiction over sovereign decisions or hydropower projects. As of now, India is concentrating on completing ongoing projects on the three western rivers that have been delayed due to Pakistan's persistent objections.

The Indus basin, which spans across China, India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, is a lifeline for millions of people. This river system comprises the Indus and five major tributaries: Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. Under the treaty, these six rivers are divided into two groups: three Eastern Rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej) are allocated for unrestricted Indian use, subject to certain treaty provisions, while the other three Western Rivers (Indus, Chenab, and Ravi) are designated for unrestricted Pakistani use, with India retaining limited rights to utilize their waters for domestic needs, agriculture, and hydropower, subject to restrictions.

The treaty also established the Permanent Indus Commission, comprising one commissioner from each country, to oversee implementation and facilitate information exchange. In case of technical disagreements, the treaty provides for a Neutral Expert, while more contentious disputes can be referred to a Court of Arbitration, with the World Bank playing a largely procedural role, including making appointments under these mechanisms.

The significance of the Indus river system cannot be overstated. For Pakistan, the basin is pivotal, supporting most of the country's agricultural heartland, supplying water for crops such as wheat, rice, and cotton, and serving as a critical source of irrigation and hydropower. Consequently, Pakistan has consistently argued that India's construction and operation of hydropower projects on the Western Rivers must adhere to the treaty's restrictions.

Pakistan is currently a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and may raise this issue to bolster its case for a resolution against India.

For India, the Indus basin is equally vital. The Punjab region, often referred to as the land of five waters, relies heavily on the river system for agriculture, while Rajasthan, Haryana, and parts of northern India face significant water stress. As population growth, urbanization, agricultural demand, and climate change exert increasing pressure on water supplies, India has argued that the treaty, which was negotiated over six decades ago, must account for the significantly altered circumstances.

India's objections to the treaty primarily revolve around its provisions and the mechanisms for resolving disputes over hydropower projects. India contends that the existing dispute resolution process is inadequate and seeks changes to ensure a more equitable distribution of water resources.