Climate Proofing Indus Water Treaty: An Instrument of Peace Building in South Asia

Abstract

Indus Water Treaty (IWT) between Pakistan and India was signed on 19 September 1960. At that time, climate change was not incorporated since the phenomenon was not known as it came to be known later. While climate change has become a global reality, the uncertain and declining water availability has also impacted significantly. Immense technological advancements have added new dimensions to water availability. Water quantity and quality both are under transition. Besides pressures on water availability such as population growth, urbanization, economic development, extreme climatic events etc., the hydro-politic between arch nuclear rivals has started showing an upward trajectory, a potential threat to regional peace and stability. The emerging water conflict between riparian states can be managed if climate-proofing of IWT is done by incorporating current knowledge, particularly of climate change and its alignment with the current set of international rules and water laws. The qualitative research has been conducted by collecting data through elite interviews. The research proposes an arrangement for climate-proofing IWT with the objective to induce current climate change knowledge and promote harmony for fostering transboundary water resource management. Various physical, socio-economic, and environmental dimensions to mitigate the impact of climate change and minimize the consequences of extreme events have been considered for evolving a set of related findings. The research recommends climate-proofing IWT by integrating fragmented climate change adaptation global practices for equitable utilization of Indus River Waters in a customized manner acceptable to both the riparian states.