Islamabad: Concerns over the future of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) have resurfaced as India expands hydropower infrastructure and pursues new river diversion projects, according to water policy expert Mohsin Leghari.
According to Beyond Time News, Leghari warned that recent developments could test the treaty’s long-standing framework and create uncertainty for downstream water users in Pakistan.
The former Punjab irrigation minister, who is currently associated with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pakistan’s National Governance Programme, shared his views during a discussion on regional water security and treaty obligations.
Indus Waters Treaty Remains a Critical Agreement
For more than six decades, the Indus Waters Treaty has served as one of the world’s most enduring water-sharing agreements.
Signed in 1960, the treaty allocated the eastern rivers — Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej — to India. Meanwhile, Pakistan received primary rights over the western rivers, including the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab, while allowing India limited use under specific conditions.
Despite wars and political tensions between the two countries, the treaty largely continued to function. However, recent developments have raised fresh questions about its future.
Concerns Grow Over India’s Hydropower Projects
Leghari highlighted several Indian hydropower projects on the Chenab River, including Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle.
According to him, India maintains that each project complies with treaty provisions. Nevertheless, concerns persist over the cumulative impact of these projects.
He explained that water disputes involve more than total water volume. The timing and regulation of river flows also play a crucial role, particularly for agricultural regions that depend on predictable irrigation supplies.
As a result, Pakistan remains concerned that coordinated operations of multiple projects could influence downstream water availability during critical farming seasons.
River Diversion Project Raises Legal Questions
Another issue involves India’s reported tunnel project in the Lahaul-Spiti region.
The project aims to divert water from the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, both tributaries of the Chenab, into the Beas basin.
Leghari argued that even if the diverted volume remains relatively small, the project raises important legal and treaty-related questions.
The Indus Waters Treaty established a framework that largely separates eastern and western river systems. Therefore, any inter-basin transfer could create new challenges regarding treaty interpretation and implementation.
Impact on Pakistan’s Agriculture
Pakistan’s irrigation network relies heavily on stable river flows.
Major infrastructure such as the Marala Barrage and the Upper Chenab Canal was designed around predictable water availability in the Chenab basin.
Leghari noted that changes in river management or flow patterns could complicate agricultural planning and create uncertainty for farmers.
Furthermore, growing water demand and climate-related pressures have increased the need for reliable water management systems across the region.
REad more:Pakistan Reiterates India Cannot Unilaterally Alter Indus Waters Treaty
Strengthening Pakistan’s Water Security
While discussing possible solutions, Leghari urged Pakistan to focus on improving domestic water resilience.
He recommended expanding water storage facilities downstream of Marala and modernizing irrigation infrastructure. In addition, he emphasized investment in real-time monitoring systems, data analytics, and advanced forecasting tools.
Such measures, he said, would help authorities respond more effectively to fluctuations in river flows and improve long-term water planning.
Greater Provincial Coordination Needed
Leghari also stressed the importance of stronger coordination among Pakistan’s provinces.
He called for unified water measurement standards, shared databases, and coordinated planning of irrigation and storage projects.
According to him, transparent data sharing can reduce misunderstandings and improve the fair distribution of water resources across the country.
Moreover, enhanced cooperation would strengthen Pakistan’s overall water governance framework and support future development goals.
PCA Decision Supports Pakistan’s Position
Commenting on the recent supplemental award issued by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), Leghari said many in Pakistan view the decision as support for the country’s legal stance.
He explained that Pakistan believes the treaty places clear limits on India’s ability to regulate water flows on the western rivers.
Furthermore, he noted that the treaty’s dispute-resolution mechanisms continue to provide an important platform for addressing disagreements between the two countries.
Legal Action and Reforms Must Continue Together
Leghari concluded that Pakistan should pursue legal efforts and domestic reforms simultaneously.
He argued that legal victories alone cannot guarantee long-term water security. Likewise, infrastructure improvements work best when supported by strong legal protections.
Therefore, Pakistan must continue strengthening its water management systems while actively defending its treaty rights through international legal channels.
As regional water challenges grow more complex, experts believe that effective governance, modern infrastructure, and continued diplomatic engagement will remain essential for protecting the country’s water future.
FAQs
What is the Indus Waters Treaty?
The Indus Waters Treaty is a water-sharing agreement signed between Pakistan and India in 1960 that governs the use of rivers in the Indus basin.
Why are Pakistan’s concerns increasing?
Pakistan has expressed concerns about India’s hydropower projects and river diversion plans, which could affect water flow management in western rivers.
Which rivers are allocated to Pakistan under the treaty?
Pakistan has primary rights over the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers under the treaty framework.
What reforms has Mohsin Leghari suggested?
He recommends expanding water storage, modernizing irrigation systems, improving data monitoring, and strengthening provincial coordination.
What role does the Permanent Court of Arbitration play?
The PCA helps resolve disputes related to the interpretation and implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty.
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