Pakistan Alleges India Restricting Chenab River Flow, Claims Violation of Indus Waters Treaty

Islamabad: Following India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), Pakistan has raised fresh concerns over water flow in the Chenab River, claiming that India is restricting its waters. The Pakistani Foreign Ministry has formally sought clarification from India, asserting that under the 1960 treaty, India must provide transparency regarding river flows.

Accusations and Concerns

According to Tahir Hussain Andrabi, spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, the Chenab River has shown “sudden variations” in water levels. He alleged that India is releasing water without prior notice, raising serious concerns about the livelihoods, economic security, and agriculture of downstream communities in Pakistan.

Andrabi stated that Pakistan’s Indus Commissioner has written to his Indian counterpart seeking clarification, emphasizing that such unilateral actions fall under treaty obligations. He warned that tampering with water flow during critical agricultural periods could severely affect Pakistani citizens dependent on the river for irrigation and drinking water.

Historical Context: Indus Waters Treaty Suspension

The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, allocates the waters of the Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers between India and Pakistan. Following terrorist attacks in Pahalgam, in which 26 civilians were killed, India suspended the treaty, asserting that water and violence cannot flow together. Pakistan condemned this suspension, calling it a violation and an “act of war,” while maintaining that India has no unilateral right to suspend the treaty.

Pakistan Appeals to International Community

Andrabi urged the international community to pressure India into honoring the treaty, describing it as vital for regional stability and security. He stressed that while Pakistan remains committed to peaceful dispute resolution, it will not compromise on the water rights of its citizens.

Growing Tensions Over Water Security

This latest dispute marks a continuation of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of security incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. With the Indus Waters Treaty currently suspended, water management in key rivers such as the Chenab has become a flashpoint, raising concerns over potential escalation and regional impact.