Modi’s Strategic Strike: India Eyes Indus Treaty to Corner Pakistan
In a bold retaliatory gesture following the tragic Pahalgam terror assault, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reportedly initiating the termination of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT)—a historic 1960 pact regulating river water sharing between India and Pakistan. This move, being hailed as a strategic economic maneuver, aims to choke Pakistan’s lifeline by tightening access to vital river waters.
Agriculture on the Brink
Pakistan’s economy, with nearly a quarter of its GDP dependent on farming, relies heavily on the Indus River. Over 80% of its farmland, especially in Punjab and Sindh, depends on its waters. Revoking the treaty could shrink the eastern river flows (Sutlej, Beas, Ravi), potentially slashing crop output by up to 50%. Experts warn of massive food shortages and a possible 7% annual GDP contraction due to failing harvests.
Power Crisis Looms
Hydropower stations like Tarbela and Mangla, supplying 30% of Pakistan’s electricity, are also fueled by the Indus. Reduced water flow would trigger prolonged blackouts up to 16 hours daily, severely disrupting industries and worsening economic instability.
Water Security at Risk
The Indus delivers 70% of Pakistan’s surface water. Without it, Pakistan’s aging irrigation and storage systems would collapse under pressure. With limited groundwater and no quick alternatives, the nation faces an acute water emergency.
Geopolitical Power Play
Seen as a calculated alternative to war, India’s move weaponizes water to undermine Pakistan economically. While global diplomacy may follow, Pakistan’s short-term resilience is bleak.
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