Intro (Micro Notes Format):
Indus Water Treaty (1960): Signed between India & Pakistan under World Bank mediation. Allocates:
- Eastern Rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India
- Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan
Ecological Implications:
- Alteration of river flow: Affects aquatic biodiversity downstream.
- Hydropower & infrastructure projects (e.g., Kishanganga, Baglihar) have cumulative impacts on riverine ecosystems.
- Climate change & glacier retreat: Poses long-term threats to water availability and treaty relevance.
Economic Implications:
- Pakistan’s economy highly dependent on western rivers for agriculture.
- India’s restricted usage limits its hydropower and irrigation potential.
- Development of irrigation, hydroelectricity & navigation remains contentious.
Political Implications:
- Treaty has withstood wars and diplomatic breakdowns (e.g., 1965, 1971, 1999).
- Post-Uri attack (2016) and Pulwama (2019), India reviewed the treaty as strategic leverage.
- Growing demands in India to maximize permitted use under the treaty.
- Pakistan often raises concerns at international forums, citing violations.
Conclusion:
While a model of water-sharing cooperation, the Indus Water Treaty is under stress due to ecological strain, water scarcity, and political tension. A future-focused re-evaluation and joint water governance mechanisms may be required.
