ISLAMABAD: Tensions between Pakistan and India have escalated further as reports emerge that India is actively considering plans to significantly increase its withdrawal of water from the Indus River system.
This development comes as a retaliatory measure following a deadly attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir in April, for which New Delhi holds Pakistan responsible. Pakistan has vehemently denied any involvement in the attack.
According to multiple sources familiar with the matter, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed officials to fast-track the planning and execution of water projects on the Chenab, Jhelum, and Indus rivers – the western rivers primarily allocated to Pakistan under the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
One of the key projects under consideration is the expansion of the Ranbir canal on the Chenab River. Plans involve doubling its length to 120 kilometers, which would allow India to divert approximately 150 cubic meters of water per second, a substantial increase from the current 40 cubic meters. Experts suggest that such an expansion could take years to complete.
Modi said in a fiery speech this week that “water and blood cannot flow together,” though he didn’t refer to the treaty. Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters Tuesday that India “will keep the treaty in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism”.
Pakistan Voices Grave Concerns, Warns of “Act of War”
Pakistan has reacted strongly to these reports. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated this week that Pakistan has formally communicated to India, asserting that any suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty is unlawful and that Pakistan considers the treaty to remain in force.
Following India’s initial suspension of the treaty last month, Pakistan declared that any attempt to obstruct or divert its water share would be considered an “act of war.”
The Indus River system is the lifeline for Pakistan’s agricultural sector, with approximately 80% of its farms relying on its waters.
The system also supports the majority of the country’s hydropower projects, which are crucial for its energy needs. Any significant reduction in water flow could have devastating consequences for Pakistan’s food security, economy, and the livelihoods of millions.
