How Indus Waters Suspension Could Devastate Pakistan?

Millions of farmers in both India and Pakistan depend on the Indus River for their livelihood. At a time when the economy is still recuperating from an IMF bailout, Pakistan's crop production might be severely harmed by the suspension of water sharing.

Since Pakistan depends on the Indus River system for electricity, agriculture, and everyday water needs, the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) would have significant and long-lasting repercussions for the nation. The World Bank-mediated agreement between India and Pakistan in 1960, which is a cornerstone of water-sharing, has withstood decades of conflict. Therefore, halted, there could be major political, economic, and humanitarian consequences.

First and foremost, water from the Indus basin is crucial to Pakistan's agriculture industry, which employs around 40% of the country's workers and accounts for more than 19% of its GDP. In order to guarantee a consistent flow for agriculture, the treaty gave Pakistan control of the three western rivers—the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab. The production of crops in important areas like Punjab and Sindh may be significantly impacted. Food insecurity and a rise in rural poverty could result from this.

Pakistan's energy sector would also suffer significant setbacks, in addition to its agricultural sector. These rivers are home to hydroelectric power plants that provide a large amount of the nation's electricity. Any interruption in the water supply could make it more difficult to generate electricity, which would exacerbate the energy crisis and have an effect on businesses, healthcare, and education.

India's stance on Pakistan has significantly changed as a result of this decision. This is the first time the pact has been officially suspended, despite New Delhi's prior threats to "revisit" the IWT following earlier strikes. The timing is purposeful; the action targets Pakistan's most vulnerable areas, which include food, water, energy security, and agriculture.

Although India mostly uses the 33 MAF from its allotted rivers for hydropower and agriculture in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, it has little control over Pakistan's flows under standard treaty terms. By suspending the IWT, that cap is lifted, returning authority to India.

The Indian government has vowed strong action to end terrorism. Pakistan must realize the serious implications in the upcoming days.

Blog by : Harsh Pargat