Pakistan Escalates Indus Water Dispute with India The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960, brokered by the World Bank, remains a cornerstone of water management between India and Pakistan. The agreement divided the six rivers of the Indus basin, allocating the western rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab—to Pakistan and the eastern rivers—Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—to India. India was granted limited non-consumptive use of the western rivers for hydropower, but the treaty explicitly barred any modifications to water flows that could jeopardize Pakistan’s access to its share. For decades, this framework helped manage a critical shared resource amid the two nations’ enduring rivalry. However, tensions have intensified in recent years. In 2025, India suspended the treaty following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 26 people. New Delhi blamed Pakistan without presenting conclusive evidence, while Islamabad denied the allegations and called for an independent investigation. This dispute has been compounded by India’s accelerated infrastructure projects on the western rivers, including the Chenab-Beas Link Tunnel and expansion of the Ranbir Canal. Additionally, India has ceased sharing hydrological data with Pakistan’s Commissioner for Indus Waters, further straining relations. India’s actions have prompted a heightened sense of urgency in Islamabad. Pakistani policymakers now view these measures as part of a broader Indian strategy to weaponize water as a tool of pressure. The Pakistan government recently hosted a seminar in Islamabad, bringing together civilian leaders, climate experts, and military officials to discuss the threat posed by India’s water policies.#pakistan #india #world_bank #indus_waters_treaty #permanent_indus_commission
