Pakistan confirms receiving flood alert from India, slams breach of water treaty

Pakistan confirmed on Monday it has received a flood warning from India, but criticized New Delhi for transmitting it through diplomatic channels rather than the official mechanism under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).

Islamabad called the move a “serious breach of international law” with potential consequences for regional peace.

The confirmation comes amid heightened tensions over water sharing, following India’s April decision to place the treaty “in abeyance” after a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which New Delhi blamed on Pakistan without evidence.

Islamabad condemned that suspension as “an act of war,” noting the IWT does not permit unilateral withdrawal.

On Saturday, as Punjab braced for fresh monsoon floods, authorities evacuated thousands from low-lying areas along the Sutlej River.

Reiterating that India remains legally bound to implement the treaty, Pakistan’s Foreign Office warned that bypassing the established flood-alert channels undermines disaster preparedness and risks destabilizing the region.

“India’s unilateral declaration to hold the treaty in abeyance constitutes a serious violation of international law and could have significant negative consequences for peace and stability in South Asia,” the statement said.

Indus Waters Treaty – A cornerstone of cooperation

Brokered by the World Bank in 1960, the Indus Waters Treaty is regarded as one of the most enduring water-sharing agreements globally.

It allocates the three eastern rivers - Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej - to India, and the three western rivers - Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab - to Pakistan, while allowing India limited usage rights.

The treaty also established the Permanent Indus Commission to manage data exchange, resolve disputes, and ensure early warning in emergencies such as floods.

Despite wars and persistent tensions, the treaty has survived for over six decades, earning praise for its resilience. However, recent developments — including India’s revocation of Article 370 in 2019 and recurring border clashes — have put the pact under increasing strain.

Pakistan’s concerns

By choosing to route its August 24 flood alerts through its High Commission rather than the Permanent Indus Commission, India signaled what many observers see as a deliberate challenge to the treaty framework.

Analysts note that New Delhi has long voiced frustration over what it perceives as Pakistan’s obstruction of hydropower projects in Jammu & Kashmir and has hinted at reassessing its treaty commitments in response to security concerns.

International water law experts argue that unilateral withdrawal or suspension of such a treaty is not legally defensible without due process and multilateral consultation, particularly with the World Bank as a guarantor.

Implications for South Asia

Pakistan warns that undermining the IWT could destabilize a region already facing water stress, climate-driven disasters, and strained bilateral ties.

The Indus Basin is Pakistan’s lifeline, providing water for agriculture, drinking, and power generation. Any disruption to data-sharing and early-warning systems risks compounding humanitarian and economic vulnerabilities.

Diplomatic observers caution that unless the issue is resolved through dialogue or third-party mediation, water could become an even more volatile flashpoint in South Asia’s already fraught geopolitical landscape.