ISSN (Print): 2708-6453 | ISSN (Online): 2708-6461 | ISSN-L: 2708-6453

Water Scarcity in Pakistan: Hydro-Politics in Indus Basin

Authors

Ghulam Mustafa
Ph. D Scholar, Department of Political Science & International Relations, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan
Dr. Muhammad Ramzan Shahid
Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science & International Relations, University of Gujrat, Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan

Keywords

Indo-Pak Hydro Politics Non-Traditional Security Threat Water War Transboundary

Abstract

South Asia is rich in natural resources and active manpower. Nevertheless, the abrupt and discriminatory boundaries, power imbalances, and unequal water distribution has created water insecurity in the region. This research looks into the topic of water scarcity in Pakistan specifically in the context of hydropolitics in Indus Basin. The complex interplay of power politics over water between Pakistan and India (especially in context to Indus water treaty), as well as its eventual influence on the region, has been given significant attention. Kashmir and the role of other key players have also been thoroughly examined. The findings revealed that water is no longer a political issue, but rather a security concern that might jeopardize state sovereignty and the lives of its citizens. The hydro hegemony of India and the nuclear status of both the states, require the governments to cooperate rather than incite conflict and war over the subject of water.