The Sindhu River, also known as the Indus River, is one of the longest rivers in Asia, flowing through India and Pakistan. It has been a source of contention between the two countries for many years, resulting in the signing of the Sindhu River Agreement in 1960.
The Sindhu River Agreement is a treaty between India and Pakistan that regulates the use of the river`s water resources. The agreement was signed in Karachi on September 19, 1960, by Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistani President Ayub Khan.
The agreement is based on the principle of the equitable distribution of the river`s water and its tributaries between the two countries, with India receiving 80% of the water and Pakistan receiving the remaining 20%. The agreement also established the Indus Waters Commission, which is responsible for the implementation of the treaty.
Under the agreement, both countries are allowed to construct hydroelectric power projects, irrigation systems, and other facilities on the river and its tributaries. However, these projects must be approved by the Indus Waters Commission and should not affect the water flow to the other country.
The treaty also covers the sharing of data and information related to the river`s water resources. Both countries are required to exchange hydrological data and to inform each other about any planned projects that may affect the river`s water flow.
One of the most significant aspects of the Sindhu River Agreement is its dispute resolution mechanism. The treaty establishes a mechanism for resolving any disputes that may arise between the two countries regarding the implementation of the agreement. This mechanism involves the referral of disputes to a neutral expert or a court of arbitration.
Despite the agreement, tensions between the two countries over the use of the river`s water resources continue to exist. The construction of the Kishanganga Hydroelectric Plant by India in Jammu and Kashmir has been a major source of tension between the two countries in recent years, with Pakistan claiming that the project violates the Sindhu River Agreement.
In conclusion, the Sindhu River Agreement is an essential treaty that regulates the use of the river`s water resources between India and Pakistan. Its equitable distribution principle and dispute resolution mechanism have been crucial in maintaining a balance between the two countries and avoiding any significant conflicts over the river`s resources.