India likely to face 'overwhelming water crisis' over IWT violation, experts warn

MULTAN, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 18th Feb, 2026) Experts have warned that India could face an 'overwhelming water management crisis' if it violates the Indus Waters Treaty, citing the lack of sufficient storage infrastructure needed to retain massive water flows from the western rivers during peak seasons.

Chairman of the Department of Political Science at Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU) Professor Muqarrab Akbar, talking to APP, said it was nearly impossible for India to hold back tens of billions of cubic metres of water from the western rivers during high-flow periods. He added that India lacks both massive storage facilities and an extensive canal system to divert such volumes.

Referring to a study by a regional water resources expert associated with the South Asia Network on Dams, he said most Indian hydropower projects are run-of-the-river plants, which do not require or allow large-scale storage capacity.

Dr Rafidah Nawaz, Assistant Professor at BZU, said the treaty is legally binding under international law and any violation could give the aggrieved party grounds to seek legal remedies.

She said unilateral withdrawal from the treaty is difficult and Pakistan could approach international forums such as the United Nations General Assembly and the International Court of Justice for implementation of treaty provisions.

According to her, Pakistan should present the case at political, legal and diplomatic forums to highlight its implications and safeguard its rights. She added that India is bound under international commitments, and any attempt to restrict water flow would raise serious legal concerns.

Dr Muhammad Naeem Khan, a fisheries scientist and environmental expert, said Pakistan has faced growing challenges due to alleged violations of treaty provisions, particularly after the coming to power of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government. He stressed that Pakistan must adopt an effective legal strategy to ensure implementation of the treaty in letter and spirit and prevent water disputes or regional tension.

He said several legal options are available to Pakistan under international law to defend its rights and compel India to fulfil its obligations.