Indo-Pak Water Disputes: Causes and Consequences

Abstract

Study Aim: The main objective of this research is to explore water conflicts between Pakistan and India and their effects on bilateral relations of both states. Indian concern to uphold hydro hegemony on the Western Rivers of Pakistan is also the main rationale of this research. The primary purpose of the study is to answer the research questions and explain the causes and consequences of water disputes between Pakistan and India.

Methodology: Secondary sources are used to collect data and the analyses are made under the paradigm of qualitative content analysis method. The Indo-Pakistan water disputes are hampering the peaceful situation of South Asian region and it may lead the region towards the massive conflict.

Findings: The South Asian region is counted as one of the most dangerous regions of the world due to persistent rivalry of Islamabad and New Delhi. The hostility between Pakistan and India is not novel but some issues are watering the plant of antagonism historically and it may be resulted into a war. There are many factors behind these adverse bilateral relations but Kashmir issue and water conflicts are more prominent and have potential to trigger any misadventure. Water security is gaining more significance as non-traditional security threats are becoming primary concern of every state. Initially, Indus Water Treaty (IWT) resolved the water issues between both states but in 21^st century, it reemerged owing to the building of many hydropower projects on the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus rivers by India.

Conclusion: Due to growing needs of water and decreasing supply, further tensions are increasing between Islamabad and New Delhi, which, are needed to be resolved immediately. Regular talks at Indus Water Commissioners level should be conducted and all reservations should be addressed. Efforts to maintain hydro-hegemony should also be avoided by India. It is also highly needed and required that confidence-building measures should be adopted by both states to avoid any futuristic combat like situation over water issues.