Pakistan Faces Severe Water Crisis Amid Economic Isolation

Pakistan Faces Severe Water Crisis- In a historic diplomatic move, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, cutting off 80% of Pakistan’s agricultural water supply. This decision, taken in response to Pakistan’s continued support for cross-border terrorism, has crippled Pakistan’s economy, sparking concerns over food security and water shortages. The situation is critical, Pakistan faces severe water crisis with major cities facing drinking water shortages and agriculture sectors struggling.

What is the Indus Waters Treaty?

Signed in 1960, the Indus Waters Treaty was a water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan, brokered by the World Bank. Under this treaty:

• India controlled the Eastern Rivers—Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej.
• Pakistan controlled the Western Rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab.
• India was allowed limited use of the Western Rivers for agriculture and hydroelectric projects.

However, following the Pahalgam terror attack, India revoked the treaty, citing Pakistan’s failure to uphold peace.

Impact on Pakistan’s Water Supply

With the treaty suspended indefinitely, Pakistan is now facing one of its worst water crises in decades. Here’s how the situation is unfolding:

• Agricultural Devastation: Pakistan’s Kharif season crops, including wheat, rice, and sugarcane, are at risk of failure due to severely reduced irrigation.
• Drinking Water Shortages: Major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad are experiencing water rationing, with residents reporting dry taps and restricted supply.
• Economic Fallout: The agriculture sector, which contributes 19% to Pakistan’s GDP, is collapsing, leading to mass unemployment and food inflation.
• Pakistan’s Response: Islamabad has called for international intervention, claiming that India’s move is an “act of war”.
• Chenab River Flow Drops by 90%: According to Pakistan, India has almost completely halted the flow of water through the Chenab River, causing severe shortages.
• 21% Water Shortage Expected: The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) has warned that Pakistan will face a 21% shortage in water availability during the Kharif season, affecting crops like rice, sugarcane, and cotton.
• Khanpur Dam Supply May Last Only 35 Days: The water level in Khanpur Dam has dropped significantly, leaving only 35 days of supply for Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
• Severe Heatwave Worsening Crisis: Pakistan is experiencing record-breaking temperatures, further exacerbating water shortages and disrupting agriculture.

India’s Strategic Move

India’s decision to suspend the treaty is part of a three-step plan to maximize water retention:

1. Increase Dam Capacity: India is expanding reservoirs to store more water, preventing it from flowing into Pakistan.
2. Hydroelectric Projects: New hydropower plants are being built to utilize Indus basin water for energy production.
3. No Data Sharing: India has ceased all hydrological data exchange, leaving Pakistan unable to predict water flow patterns.

Global Reactions

The United Nations has urged both nations to resolve the crisis diplomatically, while China has expressed concerns over regional stability. Meanwhile, Pakistan is exploring legal options to challenge India’s decision in international courts.

Conclusion on Pakistan Faces Severe Water Crisis

India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty has pushed Pakistan into economic and diplomatic isolation. With severe water shortages, failing crops, and rising tensions, Pakistan faces an uncertain future. As the crisis unfolds, the world watches to see how Islamabad will respond.