The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) is a historic water-sharing agreement signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, brokered by the World Bank. It remains one of the most successful and enduring international treaties on resource sharing, having withstood multiple wars and periods of hostility between the two nations. Its primary objective is to govern the use and distribution of the waters of the Indus River system, a lifeline for millions in both countries.
The Indus River originates in the Tibetan plateau and flows through India into Pakistan, eventually draining into the Arabian Sea. The river system includes six major rivers: the Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. These rivers are vital for irrigation, drinking water, agriculture, and energy production in both India and Pakistan.
Under the terms of the treaty, the three eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej — were allocated to India for exclusive use, while the three western rivers — Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab — were given to Pakistan. This allocation was based on geography, usage, and the flow of rivers. However, India was allowed limited use of the western rivers for specific non-consumptive purposes, such as irrigation, navigation, and hydroelectric power generation, under strict regulations.
The treaty established a Permanent Indus Commission with representatives from both countries. This commission meets regularly to exchange data, resolve disputes, and inspect development works. In case of disagreement, the treaty provides a graded mechanism for dispute resolution: beginning with bilateral negotiations, then involving neutral experts, and finally, if needed, international arbitration through a court of arbitration.
Despite its success, the treaty has faced challenges in recent years. Pakistan has raised concerns about India’s hydroelectric projects on the western rivers, arguing that they violate the treaty’s spirit. India, on the other hand, maintains that its projects are within the permissible parameters of the treaty and are crucial for meeting energy needs and managing its own water demands.
India has occasionally expressed frustration with the treaty, particularly in the aftermath of terrorist attacks traced to Pakistan. In such moments, political leaders and public discourse in India have called for a re-evaluation or even withdrawal from the treaty, viewing it as overly generous to Pakistan. However, India has so far honored the agreement, citing its international obligations and the desire to be seen as a responsible global actor.
Climate change and growing water scarcity have added new layers of complexity to the Indus Waters Treaty. Both countries face increasing pressure on their water resources due to melting glaciers, changing rainfall patterns, and population growth. These challenges necessitate not just adherence to the treaty, but also a forward-looking approach to cooperation and resource management.
The treaty is more than just a legal document—it is a fragile bridge between two hostile neighbors. Its collapse could have serious implications not only for water security but also for regional peace and stability. As tensions continue to flare on political and military fronts, the treaty remains one of the few working frameworks where dialogue between India and Pakistan continues, however tenuous.
In recent developments, especially after deadly terror incidents like the Pahalgam attack, India has reconsidered its commitment to the treaty, even threatening to suspend cooperation until Pakistan verifiably ends its support for cross-border terrorism. Such moves highlight the deep interconnection between water diplomacy and national security.
The Indus Waters Treaty stands today as a paradox: an example of rare cooperation in a region fraught with hostility, yet constantly under strain from broader geopolitical tensions. Whether it continues to hold or becomes a casualty of conflict will depend not just on legal commitments, but on political will and a shared vision for the future of South Asia’s most vital resource — water.