As the world observes World Water Day on 22nd March, the irony of water scarcity in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir despite India’s consistent water supply under the Indus Water Treaty remains a harsh reality. For over six decades, India has provided billions of cubic meters of water to Pakistan, including PoK, ensuring access to water. Yet, the people of PoK remain deprived of clean drinking water due to Pakistan’s mismanagement and neglect. While India fulfils its international commitments, Pakistan’s administration fails to distribute water fairly.
Regions like Muzaffarabad, Gilgit-Baltistan and Mirpur heavily rely on water from Indian rivers such as the Indus, Jhelum and Chenab. However, due to corrupt governance and poor infrastructure, water remains a luxury for the people of PoK. Residents walk miles daily to fetch clean water, while Pakistan remains indifferent to their plight. Reports from various human rights organizations have consistently highlighted the plight of PoK residents, emphasizing how basic amenities like clean water, sanitation and healthcare have been denied to them. Despite receiving a massive flow of water from India, the people of PoK are still living in abysmal conditions due to sheer administrative failure.
Despite its challenges, India has never defaulted on the Indus Water Treaty, allowing 80% of the water to flow into Pakistan. The treaty, signed in 1960, was meant to promote peace and cooperation, but Pakistan’s internal failure has turned PoK into a region of deprivation. Moreover, India has built efficient water management systems within its territory, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that clean water reaches every household. In contrast, PoK faces water scarcity despite receiving abundant water from Indian rivers. The contrast is striking, highlighting Pakistan’s lack of governance.
Mass protests have erupted in PoK in recent years, demanding basic amenities like clean water, electricity, and healthcare. Locals question why water flows from India but remains inaccessible to them. This highlights Pakistan’s sheer negligence despite India’s consistent supply. The protesters openly criticize the administration, holding it responsible for intentionally depriving them of their rights. The situation has further fuelled resentment among the people of PoK, who now demand autonomy and accountability from the Pakistan government. The demand for basic amenities such as spotless drinking water have become a symbol of longstanding oppression in the region.
On this World Water Day, it becomes crucial for the global community to recognize the plight of PoK’s people and hold Pakistan accountable for their longstanding water crisis. International bodies like the United Nations, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch must intervene to ensure that water reaches the people of PoK without any political discrimination.The international community must also appreciate India’s commitment to peace and water-sharing despite facing hostility from Pakistan. It is imperative that Pakistan ends its systemic neglect and ensures equal water distribution in PoK.
As the world commemorates World Water Day, it is essential to remember that water is a fundamental human right, not a privilege. The people of PoK deserve clean water, better infrastructure and a government that cares for their welfare. Let the world advocate for PoK’s water rights. Let justice flow with water.
