Ahsan Iqbal Warns India Could Use Water as a Political Weapon

Pakistan's Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, has expressed serious concern over India's decision to pause the Indus Waters Treaty. Speaking at an event hosted by the Asia Society Policy Institute in New York, the minister warned that this step creates a major new security challenge for Pakistan.

He highlighted that for nearly 70 years, the historic water agreement remained untouched—even during past wars between the two countries. However, India's sudden unilateral action marks a dangerous shift where a shared natural resource is being used for political pressure.

How Water Could Be Weaponized Against Pakistan

Ahsan Iqbal explained the real-world impact this decision could have on everyday life and agriculture in Pakistan:

• Withholding Water: India could restrict water flows upstream when Pakistani farmers desperately need it for planting crops.

• Releasing Excess Water: Water could be released during off-seasons or heavy rains, increasing flood risks and disrupting water management.

• Threat to Food Security: These unexpected changes put a heavy strain on Pakistan's agricultural output, food supplies, and water reserves.
  
  

Pakistan’s Two-Pronged Response Strategy

To protect the country's water supply and national security, the Pakistani government is taking action on two fronts:

1. Building Major Water Reservoirs: Construction on key projects—such as the Diamer-Bhasha Dam and the Mohmand Dam—is being accelerated. Together, these projects will store nearly 6 million acre-feet of water, creating a vital safety buffer against sudden flow cuts or climate shocks.

2. Active Diplomatic Engagement: Pakistan is using international diplomatic channels to highlight the issue and resolve tensions peacefully, aiming to avoid future conflict over water.
   
   

A Call for Focus on Peace and Regional Growth

The minister emphasized that South Asia needs progress, not conflict. He noted that the region remains one of the least integrated globally and urged neighboring nations to focus on shared challenges—such as reducing poverty, improving healthcare, upgrading education, and creating jobs for the growing youth population.

Pakistan's message remains clear: the country will build strong water storage capacity at home while pursuing diplomacy abroad to ensure its water supply is never compromised.

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