APSC Legal Metrology: Indus Water Treaty (IWT), 1960

In news

1. Background:

• Signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan, brokered by the World Bank.
• Purpose: Equitable sharing and peaceful usage of the Indus River system.

2. Water Allocation:

• India gets unrestricted use of the eastern rivers – Ravi, Beas, Sutlej.
• Pakistan gets control over the western rivers – Indus, Jhelum, Chenab.

3. Dispute Resolution Mechanisms:

• Disputes are resolved via:
  • Permanent Indus Commission (PIC)
  • Neutral Expert (preferred by India)
  • Court of Arbitration (preferred by Pakistan)

4. Recent Case:

• India’s hydroelectric projects like Kishanganga and Ratle dams faced objections by Pakistan.
• Pakistan moved for arbitration, while India called for resolution through a Neutral Expert.

5. Indus Water Commission:

• A bilateral body established under the treaty.
• Meets annually and oversees treaty implementation and dispute resolution.

6. Key Figures:

• Pakistani PM during the signing: Ayub Khan
• Indian PM: Jawaharlal Nehru