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The Indus River: A River of Conflict and Cooperation in South Asia

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The Indus River, spanning four countries - Pakistan, India, China, and Afghanistan - is a lifeline for nearly 300 million people and has been at the heart of one of the world's most dangerous rivalries. The river's significance is rooted in its history, with the Indus Valley Civilization being one of the world's oldest and most advanced civilizations. However, the river has also been a point of contention between India and Pakistan, with the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) being a major source of tension. The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, has led to the suspension of the IWT, with India accusing Pakistan of violating the treaty. As the situation remains tense, it's essential to understand the history and complexities surrounding the Indus River.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Indus River Basin spans four countries - Pakistan, India, China, and Afghanistan - with Pakistan holding the largest share at 61%, followed by India with 29%.
  • The river has been shaped by geological events, including the tectonic uplift of the Tibetan Plateau, which led to the formation of one of humanity's earliest and most advanced civilizations - the Indus Valley Civilisation (c. 3000-1500 BCE).
  • The British introduced a series of barrages and dams to control the river's flow, altering its natural course and reshaping its relationship with the land.
  • The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) was signed in 1960 under the auspices of the World Bank, dividing the six rivers between India and Pakistan, with India controlling the eastern tributaries and Pakistan retaining control of the Indus mainstem and western tributaries.
  • The treaty has been a source of tension between India and Pakistan, with India accusing Pakistan of violating the treaty.
  • The climate crisis is further exacerbating the issues in the Indus River Basin, with 80% of its flow coming from glaciers and 50% of its annual flow occurring between July and September.
  • India has the upper hand on the issue of water control, with the ability to stop the water whenever it wants.
  • Environmental diplomacy will be essential for countries to work together to address the challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity.

Statistics:

  • The Indus River Basin spans over 9,000 kilometers and supports nearly 300 million people.
  • Pakistan holds the largest share of the basin at 61%, followed by India with 29%.
  • 80% of the Indus River's flow comes from glaciers.
  • 50% of its annual flow occurs between July and September.
  • India has the upper hand on water control, with the ability to stop the water whenever it wants.
  • The Indus River supports 90% of Pakistan's agriculture.

Sources:

  • Sadiq I. Khan and Thomas E. Adams III (eds.), Indus River Basin: Water Security and Sustainability
  • Uttam Kumar Sinha, Indus Basin Uninterrupted: A History of Territory & Politics from Alexander to Nehru
  • Michael H. Fisher, An Environmental History of India: From Earliest Times to the Twenty-First Century
  • David Gilmartin, Blood and Water: The Indus River Basin in Modern History
  • IE Online Media Services Pvt. Ltd., distributed by Contify.com.

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