Indus Waters Treaty: Can an Old Agreement Survive New Tensions Between India and Pakistan?

 By: Gurleen kaur

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) between India and Pakistan was signed in 1960. This treaty has persisted for 60 years despite any wars and disputes between the governments of these two countries and is a unique example of cooperation between them. However, tensions have increased again after the recent attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The future of this treaty is seriously in doubt due to India’s mounting resentment.

 

What is the Indus Waters Treaty?

The water sharing agreement between India and Pakistan is called the IWT (Indus Waters Treaty). This treaty divides six major rivers, of which India has control over the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) and Pakistan has control over the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab).

 

Rising tensions before 2025

The 2025 terror attack is not the only reason to end this treaty; however, relations between India and Pakistan over water sharing have deteriorated for the following reasons:

Pakistan repeatedly objected to India's construction of dams and hydroelectric projects on IWT-governed rivers. Pakistan claimed that these projects would reduce water flow into its territory, affecting agriculture and drinking water supplies. India has stated that its project adhered to the treaty's guidelines, which permit "run-of-the-river" structures without affecting Pakistan's share of water.

Second, the situation worsened following the major terror attacks of URI (2016) and Pulwama (2019).  Following these major disheartening attacks, Indian leaders and the general public began to question whether it is fair to continue this treaty with a country accused of supporting terrorism. Thus, by 2025, trust between India and Pakistan had plummeted, and the Pahalgam attack only fueled the fire.

 

The 2025 Pahalgam attack: A turning Point

The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, in April 2025, which claimed the lives of nearly 27 innocent Indian people, including Indian and foreign tourists, has heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with all blame placed on Pakistan-based terrorist groups. As a result, many Indian leaders and the general public have demanded that the Indus Waters Treaty be reconsidered, arguing that continuing cooperation while terrorism exists makes no sense.

 

What’s next for the Treaty?

If consistent political and public pressure exists or grows, India might:

- Restrict the flow of water to Pakistan within the treaty's limit.

- Seeks to renegotiate or reinterpret the agreement.

- Or considering suspending cooperation if tensions worsen.

These actions could have a significant negative impact on Pakistan's agriculture and drinking water supply, causing a larger international crisis and widening the gap between these two neighbouring countries.

 

Verdict

Despite the violent times, this treaty has served as a symbol of real peace. However, after the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, its survival is uncertain. The decisions made now by India and Pakistan will determine whether water remains a tool for peace or becomes another weapon in their long-standing rivalry.