Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960, is a water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan, brokered by the World Bank. It allocated the waters of the Indus River and its tributaries between the two countries, aiming to prevent water disputes. The treaty granted India full rights over the waters of the eastern rivers – the Beas, Ravi, and Sutlej – and Pakistan over the western rivers – the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab. However, the treaty allows India certain uses of the western rivers, including for hydroelectric power generation. In recent years, the IWT has come under increased scrutiny due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan, climate change impacts, and concerns over water security.
Historical Background and Treaty Provisions
The partition of India in 1947 led to immediate disputes over the sharing of Indus waters, as the headworks of many irrigation canals were located in India while the majority of the basin lay in Pakistan. This led to the intervention of the World Bank, which facilitated negotiations culminating in the IWT. The treaty established a Permanent Indus Commission, comprising commissioners from both countries, to maintain communication and resolve disputes. It also outlined mechanisms for data exchange and joint inspections.
Ecological Implications
The IWT has had significant ecological consequences.
- Riverine Ecosystem Degradation: The diversion of water for irrigation and hydropower has reduced river flows, impacting downstream ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Wetland Loss: Reduced flows have led to the shrinking and degradation of wetlands, crucial habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife.
- Sediment Depletion: Dams built under the treaty have trapped sediment, reducing nutrient flow to the Indus Delta, impacting its ecological health and leading to coastal erosion.
- Impact on the Indus Delta: The reduced freshwater flow has increased salinity intrusion in the Indus Delta, affecting mangrove forests and agricultural lands.
Climate change exacerbates these ecological issues, with glacial melt altering river flows and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events.
Economic Implications
The treaty has had profound economic implications for both countries:
- For India: The treaty allowed India to develop its irrigation infrastructure on the eastern rivers, boosting agricultural production. However, it restricted India’s ability to fully utilize the potential of the western rivers for hydropower generation.
- For Pakistan: The treaty guaranteed Pakistan a significant share of the Indus waters, enabling it to develop its agricultural sector, which remains heavily reliant on irrigation. However, it made Pakistan dependent on India for data and cooperation regarding the western rivers.
- Hydropower Potential: Disputes over the design of Indian hydropower projects on the western rivers (e.g., Kishanganga and Ratle projects) have arisen, with Pakistan alleging violations of the treaty provisions.
According to a 2018 study by the World Bank, the IWT has facilitated approximately $200 billion in economic benefits for both countries since its signing.
Political Implications in Changing Bilateral Relations
The IWT has largely withstood the test of time, even during periods of intense political conflict between India and Pakistan. However, recent developments have raised concerns about its future:
- Post-Uri Attacks (2016): Following the Uri terrorist attack, India considered reviewing the treaty and exploring options to limit water flows to Pakistan.
- Pulwama Attack (2019): Similar calls for revisiting the treaty were made after the Pulwama attack.
- Increased Water Stress: Growing water scarcity in both countries, coupled with climate change, is increasing the pressure on the treaty.
- Dispute Resolution Mechanism: The treaty’s dispute resolution mechanism has proven slow and ineffective, leading to frustration on both sides.
Despite these challenges, both countries have continued to engage through the Permanent Indus Commission, recognizing the importance of maintaining dialogue and preventing water-related conflicts. However, the overall political climate significantly influences the implementation and interpretation of the treaty.
| Aspect | India | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| River Access | Eastern Rivers (Beas, Ravi, Sutlej) – Full Rights | Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) – Full Rights |
| Western River Usage | Limited use for hydropower, flood management, and domestic use | Exclusive use, subject to Indian usage limitations |
| Economic Benefit (approx.) | Significant agricultural development on eastern rivers | Reliance on Indus waters for agriculture |
Conclusion
The Indus Waters Treaty remains a crucial framework for managing water resources in the Indus basin, despite facing increasing challenges. While it has largely prevented water wars between India and Pakistan, its long-term sustainability is threatened by climate change, rising water stress, and evolving geopolitical dynamics. A renewed commitment to dialogue, effective dispute resolution mechanisms, and a focus on cooperative water management are essential to ensure the treaty continues to serve as a vital instrument for peace and stability in the region. Future revisions should consider incorporating climate change projections and promoting sustainable water use practices.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.