The Indus Water Treaty, an important agreement The Indus Water Treaty, was signed between India and Pakistan in 1960. It is a historic water agreement that determines the use of water resources for both countries. This agreement is specifically based on the distribution of water of the Indus River and its tributaries. Its main objective is to resolve water disputes between the two countries and to secure the water rights of both countries. Under this treaty, the use of water for India and Pakistan has been fixed. This will ensure that there is no major dispute over water between the two countries.
What is the Indus Waters Treaty?
The Indus Waters Treaty is an agreement that was made between India and Pakistan regarding the use of water from the Indus River system. This river flows through the western part of Pakistan and also through some parts of India. Under this agreement, Pakistan was allowed to get water from the Indus River and its five tributaries. While India has the right to use the water of other rivers. Under this treaty, the water of the eastern rivers Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej was given to India, and the water of the western rivers Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab was given to Pakistan.
What is the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan?
This agreement between India and Pakistan was made after the war, when the border dispute between the two countries was deep and water was not shared with the other countries. The conflict was increasing over this. This agreement is an important assurance for Pakistan. It has been getting water from the Indus and its tributaries safely, while India also has the right to use the water of its rivers.
Why was the Indus Waters Treaty signed?
The Indus Waters Treaty was signed mainly to resolve the water disputes between Pakistan and India. There was frequent tension between the two countries regarding the water crisis and the distribution of water. This agreement was made with the intervention of the World Bank to calm the dispute between the two countries. It was seen as a peace agreement. This not only solves the water issue between the two countries but also reduces political tension. With the involvement of the World Bank and after nine years of talks, it was signed by Jawaharlal Nehru (the first Indian Prime Minister) and Ayub Khan (Pakistan’s President) to manage shared rivers.
Importance of Indus Water Treaty
The Indus Waters Treaty is very important for both countries. It not only helps in resolving water disputes but also promotes cooperation between the two countries. For Pakistan, the water of the Indus and its tributaries is life-giving. For India, it is also important for water management and development. Under this agreement, water supply is being ensured for both countries. This makes development possible not only in agriculture but also in other important sectors.
How does the Indus Waters Treaty work?
This agreement sets clear guidelines regarding the distribution of water between the two countries. Pakistan has full rights over the water of the Indus River, while India has the right to use the water of other rivers. Under this agreement, India has to obtain permission from Pakistan before using Pakistan’s water for its projects. Similarly, if any problem arises in the supply of water due to any climate change or natural disaster, then there would be talks between the two countries.
India suspended the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan.
Recently, India decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan after the Kashmir Pahalgam Terror Attack on tourists. The reason for this will be related to tension and security matters with Pakistan. India has tried to put pressure on Pakistan through suspension. This decision has been taken by India keeping in mind its national interests and security.
Effect of Suspension of the Indus Water Treaty on Pakistan
Pakistan may have to face a water crisis, if not more, because of the agreement to suspend the charge on industry. The Indus River and its tributaries are life-giving for Pakistan. And if India blocks these water sources, then it will have a serious effect on the agriculture and water supply of Pakistan. Along with this, it can be a big crisis for Pakistan from an economic and social point of view.
