Pakistan has formally appealed to India to reconsider its decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), a pivotal water-sharing agreement established in 1960. The treaty governs the distribution and use of water from the Indus River and its tributaries, which is vital for the livelihoods of millions of people in both countries.
The plea comes after India halted the 1960 agreement in the wake of a Pakistan-backed terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22, which left 26 civilians dead, mostly tourists.
al Affairs, Pakistan’s Ministry of Water Resources emphasized the critical importance of the treaty for its agrarian economy and the well-being of its citizens. The letter stated that the suspension could create a crisis in Pakistan, affecting millions who depend on the water regulated by the treaty.
India, however, maintains that the suspension is a response to Pakistan’s continued support for cross-border terrorism. The Indian government has emphasized that constructive dialogue can only resume once conducive conditions, particularly the cessation of terrorism, are met.
The Indus Waters Treaty has long been considered a cornerstone of India-Pakistan relations, surviving multiple conflicts and periods of tension. Its suspension marks a significant escalation in the already strained ties between the two nations.
As the situation develops, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that ensures regional stability and the continued equitable sharing of vital water resources.
