Pakistan Welcomes Decision on Indus Waters Treaty Interpretation

On Monday, Pakistan expressed its satisfaction with the ruling issued by the Permanent Court of Arbitration concerning the interpretation of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).

A statement from Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan clarified that the decision offers an interpretation of the established guidelines for new run-of-river hydroelectric projects planned by India on the western rivers—Chenab, Jhelum, and Indus.

The award was rendered on August 8 and made accessible on the court’s official website earlier today.

The spokesperson emphasized that the court has determined in its critical finding that India must allow the unrestricted flow of water from the western rivers for Pakistan’s use.

The statement further elaborated, stating that the specified exceptions related to the development of hydroelectric facilities must strictly comply with the requirements outlined in the treaty, instead of India following an “ideal” or “best practices” approach.

He asserted that the court’s conclusions regarding low-level outlets, gated spillways, turbine intakes, and free-board align with Pakistan’s understanding of the relevant treaty provisions.

The FO spokesperson further noted that the judgment restricts India from maximizing pondage volume.

Further details on this developing story will be provided as they become available.