- By: Dr. Muhammad Tayyab Khan Singhanvi (Ph.D)
- Former Senior Columnist – Daily Express & Jang, Karachi
The tragic death of 28 tourists in the Pahalgam area of occupied Kashmir has sparked tensions between India and Pakistan, with India leveling accusations against Pakistan without proper investigation. Pakistan views this incident as potentially orchestrated as a false flag operation, particularly in the context of India’s recent unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
- Allegations and Response:
In the wake of the incident, India has taken aggressive measures, including closing the Wagah-Attari border, canceling Pakistani visas, and expelling Pakistani nationals from India. Pakistan interprets these actions as part of a well-planned strategy by India, which stems from a desperation linked to rising Hindutva ideology and disputes over water rights. India’s suspension of the IWT is deemed illegal, challenging international oversight from bodies like the World Bank and the United Nations.
- Indus Waters Treaty Overview:
The IWT, established in 1960, governs the waters of the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers, delineating limited rights for India and majority rights for Pakistan. Although India has periodically violated the treaty, experts assert that it cannot unilaterally annul it. However, Pakistan holds the right to revisit agreements like the Shimla Agreement in response to India’s actions regarding water rights.
- Inter-Provincial Tensions Over Canal Projects:
The extraction of new canals from the Indus River is provoking severe disputes between the provinces of Sindh and Punjab in Pakistan. Concerns include:
- Sindh’s Issues: Water scarcity, environmental impacts, and legal aspects.
- Punjab’s Position: Advocates for the canal projects for agricultural expansion.
- Environmental Risks:
Experts highlight the potential ecological threats posed by new canal constructions, such as increased seawater intrusion and soil degradation in the Indus Delta. Environmental assessments are critical prior to initiating new projects.
- Proposed Solutions:
To address the canal dispute, the following measures are essential:
- Emergency Meeting of the Council of Common Interests (CCI): Convene an urgent meeting with equal representation from all provinces to promote consensus.
- Implementation of the 1991 Water Agreement: Ensure equitable distribution of water through proper enforcement by the Indus River System Authority (IRSA).
- Transparency in IRSA: Make IRSA an autonomous and unbiased body with equal provincial representation.
- Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA): Conduct mandatory assessments before new projects commence.
- Improve Current Water Systems: Enhance canal infrastructure to minimize wastage, as approximately 40% of water is lost in transit.
- Alternative Water Sources: Utilize modern agricultural practices like rain-fed agriculture and water recycling.
- Revising National Water Policy: Update the policy to address current needs related to water conservation and distribution.
- Restoring Trust Between Provinces: Promote cooperative dialogue and collaboration among provinces to foster national unity.
A sustainable resolution to the inter-provincial canal dispute hinges on mutual respect, constitutional integrity, and scientific principles. By prioritizing joint decisions that reflect national interests over regional rivalries, Pakistan can work toward both resolving the canal issues and fostering greater national unity.