Cross the boulders in the Indus Waters Treaty

Context:  Indus Water treaty

Why in news: Objection raised by Pakistan on India’s hydel project

Synopsis:

Indus Waters Treaty (IWT):

• The IWT is brokered by the World Bank and has become a source of contention between India and Pakistan.
• It emphasizes equitable allocation of water resources, aiming to prevent appreciable harm to either party’s interests.
• Exclusive water utilization rights are granted to both India and Pakistan for their respective allocated rivers.
• The focus is on utilizing river waters without causing harm to the other party.

Allocation and Utilization:

• India has unrestricted utilization rights for the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej).
• Pakistan has similar rights over the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab).
• India is allowed to store 3.60 million-acre feet (MAF) of water, divided into different sectors for conservation, power, and flood storage.

Key Issues:

• Disputes have arisen due to India’s hydel projects, specifically the Kishanganga and Ratle hydroelectric power plants.
• India sees these projects as crucial for energy and regional development, while Pakistan objects, citing treaty violations and potential harm to its water supply.
• The Kishanganga dispute was addressed in 2013 by the Court of Arbitration (CoA), which permitted the project under certain conditions.
• The Ratle project on the Chenab led to unresolved disputes between India and Pakistan.

Proposed Solutions – The Way Ahead:

• Involvement of Local Stakeholders:
  • Local stakeholders should participate in the negotiation process between India and Pakistan regarding shared water issues.
  • A joint group comprising experts from both countries, including technocrats, climate experts, water management professionals, and scientists, could address the root problems.
• Exploring Cooperation Arrangements:
  • Article VII of the IWT suggests considering cooperation arrangements.
  • Recognizing their common interest, both nations need to explore optimal development of the Indus Rivers System.
• Treaty Amendments and Trust Building:
  • Due to significant time elapsed since the treaty’s signing over 60 years ago, amendments may be needed to reflect changing circumstances.
  • Any modifications require mutual trust between India and Pakistan, as the provisions cannot be unilaterally modified.