International Arbitration Court Rules India Must Allow Unrestricted Use of Western Rivers’ Water by Pakistan

Islamabad:The International Court of Arbitration has ruled that India must allow Pakistan unrestricted use of the water from the western rivers under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). The court’s decision, which relates to the general interpretation of the treaty, was delivered on August 8 but was made public on the court’s website on Monday.

According to the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the court has instructed India to release water from the western rivers for Pakistan’s use without restrictions. The ruling also clarified that hydro-power projects on these rivers should adhere to the conditions agreed upon in the treaty.

The spokesperson emphasized that the decision is final and binding on both parties. The ruling is considered a significant victory for Pakistan, especially in the context of India’s new “run-of-river” projects.

The spokesperson explained that the decision aligns with Pakistan’s stance on key technical aspects such as low-level outlets, gated spillways, turbine intakes, and freeboard design, as it pertains to India’s water projects. The court’s ruling explicitly prevents India from storing excessive water from the western rivers.

In light of India’s recent statements regarding suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, the spokesperson noted that the decision holds particular importance, recognizing Pakistan’s vulnerable position as a downstream country. This judgment reaffirms Pakistan’s long-standing position on water distribution under the treaty.

Pakistan has welcomed the ruling and reaffirmed its commitment to full implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty. The government has expressed hope that India will comply with the court’s decision and ensure that Pakistan’s rights are respected under the agreement.