Download Indus Water Treaty PDF: If India stops Indus Water then How will it impact Pakistan [Explained]

The Indus Water Treaty (IWT) is a water-distribution treaty between India and Pakistan, arranged and negotiated by the World Bank, to use the water available in the Indus River and its tributaries. It was signed in Karachi on 19 September 1960 by then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and then Pakistani president Field Marshal Ayub Khan. On 23 April 2025, the Foreign Secretary of India announced a suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan following 2025 Baisaran Valley Terrorist Attack.

The Indus system of rivers comprises three western rivers – the Indus, the Jhelum and Chenab – and three eastern rivers – the Sutlej, the Beas and the Ravi.

The Treaty gives control over the waters of the three “Eastern Rivers” – the Beas, Ravi and Sutlej located in India with a mean annual flow of 41 billion m3 (33 million acre⋅ft) – to India, while control over the waters of the three “Western Rivers” – the Indus, Chenab and Jhelum located in India with a mean annual flow of 99 billion m3 – to Pakistan. India got about 30% of the total water carried by the Indus Rivers System located in India while Pakistan got the remaining 70%.

The Indus Waters Treaty has been a cornerstone of India-Pakistan relations for decades. Its suspension and any subsequent reduction in water flow to Pakistan could have severe implications for agriculture, energy, daily life, political stability, and the environment. It’s crucial for both nations to engage in dialogue and seek peaceful solutions to avoid exacerbating tensions and harming millions who depend on the Indus River system.

If India halts or significantly reduce the flow of water to Pakistan by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), the consequences for Pakistan could be profound and multifaceted. Some of the impacts are as follows:

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🌾 1. Impact on Agriculture

Pakistan’s agriculture heavily depends on the Indus River system, which irrigates over 47 million acres of farmland. If India restricts water flow, it could lead to:​

• Reduced Crop Yields: Less water means crops like wheat, rice, and cotton may not get enough irrigation, leading to lower yields.
• Food Shortages: A decline in crop production can result in food shortages, affecting food security for millions.​
• Economic Strain: Agriculture is a significant part of Pakistan’s economy. Reduced agricultural output can lead to economic challenges for farmers and the country as a whole.​

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⚡ 2. Energy Shortfalls

Pakistan relies on hydroelectric power for a substantial portion of its electricity. Major dams like Tarbela and Mangla generate electricity using water from the Indus River. If water flow is reduced:​

• Power Outages: Less water means less electricity generation, leading to potential power shortages and outages.​
• Increased Costs: To compensate, Pakistan might need to use more expensive energy sources, increasing electricity costs for consumers.​

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💧 3. Drinking Water and Daily Use

Beyond agriculture and energy, the Indus River provides water for daily use:​

• Urban Water Supply: Cities like Karachi and Lahore depend on river water for drinking and sanitation. Reduced flow can strain these supplies.​
• Rural Communities: Villages along the river may face water scarcity, affecting daily life and health.​

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⚠️ 4. Political and Regional Tensions

Water is a sensitive issue between India and Pakistan. If India restricts water flow:​

• Increased Tensions: Pakistan may view this as a hostile act, escalating political tensions.​
• Potential for Conflict: In extreme cases, such actions could lead to diplomatic or even military confrontations.​

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🌍 5. Environmental Consequences

Reduced river flow can harm the environment:​

• Ecosystem Damage: Aquatic life depends on consistent water levels. Changes can disrupt habitats and biodiversity.​
• Soil Salinity: Less freshwater flow can lead to increased soil salinity, reducing land fertility.​

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