The Indus Waters Treaty: A Model of Resilience Amid Conflict
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The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed on September 19, 1960, is a landmark water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan, brokered by the World Bank. It was designed to manage the distribution and usage of the Indus River system, which is vital for both countries’ agriculture and livelihoods.
Key Provisions
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River Allocation: The treaty divides the six rivers of the Indus basin between the two nations:
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Eastern Rivers: Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej are allocated to India for unrestricted use.
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Western Rivers: Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab are allocated to Pakistan, with India permitted limited usage for non-consumptive purposes like hydroelectric power generation, navigation, and certain agricultural uses.
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Dispute Resolution Mechanism: The treaty establishes a three-tiered mechanism to resolve disputes:
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Permanent Indus Commission: A bilateral commission that meets regularly to discuss issues and share data.
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Neutral Expert: In case of unresolved issues, a neutral expert can be appointed to examine technical differences.
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Court of Arbitration: For legal disputes, a court can be convened to provide binding decisions.
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Significance
The IWT has been lauded as one of the most successful international water-sharing agreements, having withstood multiple conflicts between India and Pakistan. It ensures that both countries have access to essential water resources, supporting agriculture, hydroelectric power, and domestic needs.
However, recent developments have put the treaty under strain. Following a deadly militant attack in Kashmir, India announced the suspension of the IWT, halting data sharing and potentially altering water usage patterns. This move has raised concerns about regional stability and the future of water cooperation between the two nations.
The suspension underscores the treaty’s vulnerability amidst geopolitical tensions and highlights the critical importance of diplomatic engagement to manage shared natural resources.
