INDIA is continuing its water aggression by persisting with construction of controversial dams on rivers meant for Pakistan in complete violation of Indus Water Treaty. It reportedly is now erecting the first-ever hydropower project on Maru Sadar, the right bank tributary of Chenab River, with storage of 99,000 acre-feet and having capacity to generate 1,000MW hydropower generation. Pakistan has raised objections, invoking Article 9 of the treaty, and has expressed concerns about the storage capacity of the dam.
Pakistan is already grappling with serious water shortages and India’s actions may exacerbate the situation. The potential loss of water resources due to the construction of dams on rivers meant for Pakistan raises concerns about the environmental, agricultural and humanitarian impact on the region. If diplomatic talks under Article 9 fail to yield results, Pakistan has indicated its intent to explore other avenues within the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). The escalation of the dispute to international platforms, including the possibility of invoking arbitration, underscores the severity of the issue. The ongoing legal battle between Pakistan and India at The Hague on the Kishenganga and Ratle projects highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for a swift resolution. India has also expedited construction work for two more projects – the Kiru and Kwar projects upstream Ratle project on the Chenab River with designs that are in sheer breach of provisions of the IWT. The potential impact on the water flow to Pakistan, if not addressed, could have severe consequences for the region’s stability. We should amplify voice on the international stage, seeking support from the global community to address India’s violations of the IWT. Responsibility also rests with the major capitals to come forward and play its role in stopping India’s water aggression. In the light of India’s violations of the IWT and the looming threat to Pakistan’s water security, it becomes imperative for us to proactively address water challenges. We should expedite the progress of existing water reservoir projects and simultaneously initiate the construction of new ones to guarantee a secure future for generations to come.