India Suspends Historic Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan

In a dramatic move with far-reaching implications, India has suspended the historic Indus Water Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan, which could reshape water politics in South Asia. The 1960 agreement, brokered by the World Bank, has survived wars and diplomatic breakdowns — until now.

• The Indus Water Treaty, signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan under World Bank mediation

• Treaty governed the usage of the six rivers of the Indus basin

• India suspended the pact, citing "repeated misuse and non-cooperation" by Pakistan

• The move could escalate regional tensions and trigger global reactions

• Pakistan calls the suspension a "breach of international obligation."

• India may now gain greater control over eastern rivers

• Experts warn of environmental and geopolitical consequences

The Indus Water Treaty (IWT) is widely regarded as one of the most successful international water-sharing agreements. Here's what it entails:

• Signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan with the World Bank as guarantor

• Divided into the six rivers of the Indus basin:

  • Western rivers: Indus, Jhelum, Chenab — allocated to Pakistan

  • Eastern rivers: Ravi, Beas, Sutlej — allocated to India

• Allowed India limited use of western rivers for:

• Hydropower

• Agriculture

• Non-consumptive uses

India’s decision follows years of growing frustration with Pakistan’s stance on water-related projects:

• Pakistan has consistently objected to Indian hydro projects in Jammu & Kashmir

• Dozens of disputes lodged by Pakistan have stalled infrastructure projects

• India claims Pakistan has used the treaty to "weaponize water diplomacy."

• An Indian official remarked, "A treaty meant for cooperation is being used for confrontation."

• Pakistan raised concerns over the Baglihar and Kishanganga dams

• India maintained its projects and followed treaty guidelines

• Pakistan initiated international arbitration over the Kishanganga project

• India walked out, saying simultaneous arbitration was illegal

• India sends formal notice to Pakistan

• World Bank notified of India’s withdrawal from treaty obligations

• Called India’s move an "illegal abrogation of a binding international treaty"

• Plans to raise the issue at the United Nations and the International Court of Justice

• Expressed "deep concern" over the suspension

• Urged both nations to return to dialogue

• Urged a peaceful resolution through bilateral engagement

“The treaty was designed to endure wars — its suspension is historic and risky.”

“This could lead to water insecurity in Pakistan, especially for agriculture.”

“South Asia already faces water stress — this could worsen regional instability.”

With the treaty suspended, India could now alter the flow of eastern rivers:

• Possibility of increased hydropower generation

• Potential to divert water for irrigation in Punjab and Haryana

• Could limit water flow to Pakistan during lean seasons

• It may affect Pakistan’s agriculture, especially in the Punjab region

• Increased chances of flooding or droughts due to uncoordinated water management

• Could trigger retaliatory measures from Pakistan

• Survived the 1965, 1971, and 1999 wars

• Seen as a symbol of hope for peaceful cooperation

• Suspension marks the first major breakdown since its inception

India’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty marks a turning point in regional geopolitics. While the decision reflects growing strategic assertiveness, it also raises serious concerns about water security, environmental stability, and peace in South Asia.