Plea to Approach International Legal Forums Over Pakistan’s Water Security Threat Fixed for Hearing

ISLAMABAD: A petition seeking legal action at international forums to protect Pakistan’s water rights amid growing concerns over the country’s water security has been fixed for hearing at the Islamabad High Court (IHC).

The case concerning the Chenab-Beas Link Tunnel and the protection of Pakistan’s water rights has been scheduled for hearing as the petition calls for immediate legal action at international forums for implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty.

IHC Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar will hear the petition filed by the Judicial Activism Panel on September 16. The Registrar’s Office has issued the cause list scheduling the case for hearing on the said date.

The court had earlier sought a detailed response from the federal government regarding the matter.

The petition has requested the government to immediately approach international legal forums for enforcement of the Indus Waters Treaty. It has also sought judicial intervention to safeguard Pakistan’s water resources.

The petition contends that India’s plan to divert water from the Chenab River poses a serious threat to Pakistan and its water security.

It further argues that Pakistan’s water security is at risk and alleges that the government’s silence on the issue amounts to a violation of fundamental rights.

The petitioner has therefore urged the Islamabad High Court to intervene and direct the government to take immediate and effective legal measures to protect Pakistan’s water rights at national and international levels.