Navigating the Waters: A Turning Point in the Indus Water Treaty Dispute

21/01/2025

The recent decision by a World Bank-appointed neutral expert to support India's position on the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing water dispute between India and Pakistan. This ruling, delivered by Michel Lino, the president of the International Commission of Large Dams, underscores a significant development in the interpretation and implementation of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT). The Indus Water Treaty, established in 1960, has been a cornerstone of India-Pakistan relations regarding water resource management. Crafted after nine years of negotiations, the treaty's primary goal was to foster cooperation over the shared waters of the Indus River system. Despite the enduring political tensions between the two countries, the treaty has largely functioned as an effective mechanism for conflict resolution and resource sharing.
In recent years, however, the treaty has faced challenges, particularly concerning the construction of hydroelectric projects by India on rivers allocated to Pakistan. The Kishenganga and Ratle projects have been at the center of these disputes. India has advocated for resolving such disagreements through a neutral expert, as outlined by the treaty, which it believes provides a fair and efficient resolution mechanism. On the other hand, Pakistan's preference for involving the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague reflects its concerns over the neutral expert's scope and perhaps a desire for broader international scrutiny. Lino's ruling is significant as it validates India's interpretation that the issues at hand fall within the competence of the neutral expert, as stipulated in the treaty. This decision not only affirms the treaty's established procedures but also highlights the importance of adhering to agreed-upon mechanisms for dispute resolution. It sets a precedent for how similar differences might be addressed in the future, emphasizing the treaty's relevance and adaptability.
For India, this ruling is a diplomatic endorsement, reinforcing its commitment to the treaty's processes and underscoring its right to harness its water resources within the treaty's framework. For Pakistan, while the ruling may seem unfavorable, it is an opportunity to reassess and engage constructively within the established treaty provisions. The decision should not be viewed as a setback but rather as a call to strengthen dialogue and cooperation. Moving forward, it is essential for both countries to view this ruling as a starting point for renewed engagement. The Indus Water Treaty has withstood numerous challenges over the decades, and its resilience lies in the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Both nations must prioritize dialogue and work collaboratively to address their concerns, ensuring the treaty continues to serve its purpose of equitable and sustainable water management.
The neutral expert's decision serves as a reaffirmation of the treaty's effectiveness and a reminder of the importance of working within its framework. By embracing this ruling as an opportunity for constructive engagement, India and Pakistan can reinforce their commitment to peace and cooperation, paving the way for a more stable and prosperous future.

Photo Gallery

BSE Sensex

NSE Nifty