Impact of Climate Change on Transboundary water Management of Indus River Basin

Abstract

India and Pakistan share one of the largest river systems in the world which is managed through the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty. For decades the arch rivals have abided by the principles of the agreement despite the long history of disputes and several standoffs. The agreement has helped India and Pakistan resolve their bilateral disputes which are mostly related to the construction of hydroelectric projects by India on the rivers owned by Pakistan. In recent times, however, climate change is negatively affecting the water availability in the Indus Basin. This study focused on evaluating the effectiveness of the Indus Waters Treaty in managing the alteration inflow volume and variability resulting because of the change in the climate. A theoretical framework is applied and it has been concluded that despite an institutional arrangement and a conflict resolution mechanism, IWT lacks vital tools to deal with the challenges caused by climate change. The two South Asian nations also share common threats of rapidly increasing population, poor water infrastructure, and struggling economy which would further deteriorate the situation. It has been suggested that both the riparian should aim for integrated transboundary water management if they want to sustainably utilize and develop the water resources of the Indus Basin.