ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has formally raised concerns with the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), accusing India of weaponising the waters of the Western Rivers, a breach of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). In a submission to the PCA, Pakistan highlighted significant changes in India’s policy since April 23, 2025, suggesting that India’s actions could have serious repercussions on the flow of water to Pakistan.
The supplemental award, issued on June 27, 2025, reaffirms the court’s authority to hear Pakistan’s case despite India’s stance of suspending the treaty, which Pakistan claims is actively undermining its obligations. Pakistan’s submission emphasizes that India’s “abeyance” policy—its declaration to hold the treaty in suspension—has led to deliberate attempts to manipulate water flows in violation of the treaty.
Pakistan outlined three main ways in which India is allegedly manipulating water flow: through the creation of sizable reservoirs, the release of excessive water leading to downstream flooding, and the mass release of sediment that damages infrastructure and land. According to Pakistan, these actions have caused significant disruptions, as evidenced by hydrographic data showing unusual flow variations in the Chenab River since India’s policy announcement in April.
Pakistan further accused India of intentionally altering water flow, particularly through actions related to the Baglihar Hydroelectric Plant, and claims that efforts to seek clarifications from Indian authorities have gone unanswered.
The PCA’s ruling, while acknowledging India’s position, reaffirms the treaty’s validity and the court’s jurisdiction. The final ruling on the dispute, particularly regarding India’s actions in the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric plants, is expected later this summer. Pakistan has called for India to return to full compliance with the IWT and resume normal functioning of the treaty without delay.
