Q18. Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations.

Model Answer:

Introduction

The Indus Water Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan, is a crucial agreement that governs the allocation and management of the Indus River system's waters. The treaty, brokered by the World Bank, aims to resolve water-sharing disputes between the two countries, which have historically had contentious relations. While the IWT has provided a framework for cooperation, its ecological, economic, and political implications are significant in the context of evolving bilateral relations.

Body

Account of the Indus Water Treaty:

• The treaty allocates the waters of the Indus River system, which includes the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers to Pakistan, and the Beas, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers to India.
• It establishes protocols for the construction and operation of dams, barrages, and other water infrastructure, requiring both countries to share information on water projects.

Ecological Implications:

• Water Resource Management:
  • The IWT promotes sustainable management of water resources, but the over-extraction of water and neglect of environmental flows has led to ecological degradation in the basin.
  • The treaty does not adequately address the ecological needs of the river systems, leading to habitat loss and reduced biodiversity.
• Impact on River Health:
  • Dams and irrigation projects can alter natural river flow patterns, affecting ecosystems and local communities reliant on these water bodies for sustenance.

Economic Implications:

• Agricultural Dependency:
  • The treaty supports agriculture in both countries by providing reliable water supply. In India, the allocation of the Ravi and Beas rivers is crucial for irrigation in Punjab and Haryana.
  • However, issues of water scarcity and mismanagement threaten agricultural productivity and livelihoods.
• Hydroelectric Potential:
  • The treaty restricts India from exploiting the full hydroelectric potential of the Western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab), impacting energy generation and economic growth.

Political Implications:

• Bilateral Relations:
  • The IWT has been a stabilising factor in India-Pakistan relations, offering a framework for dialogue amidst political tensions.
  • However, disputes over water-sharing, especially in light of rising tensions post-2016 Uri attack and subsequent military operations, have raised concerns about the treaty's viability.
• Nationalism and Water Security:
  • Both countries view water security as a national priority, leading to increased nationalist sentiments that can strain relations and complicate cooperative efforts.

Conclusion

‍The Indus Water Treaty remains a vital instrument for managing water resources between India and Pakistan, with significant ecological, economic, and political implications. While the treaty has historically helped mitigate conflicts over water, changing bilateral relations and environmental challenges necessitate a reevaluation of its provisions. Ensuring sustainable water management and fostering cooperation in the face of climate change and population growth is essential for both nations to achieve long-term stability and prosperity

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