Recently, a report concerning water management and international water treaties was presented in Rajya Sabha by the Standing Committee on Water Resources. The report, entitled “Flood Management in the Country including International Water Treaties in the field of Water Resource Management with particular reference to Treaty/Agreement entered into with China, Pakistan and Bhutan”, urges the Indian Government to reconsider the 1960 Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan, given the current climate change challenges. It also advocates for continuing surveillance of China’s activities on the Brahmaputra river.
Flood Management Proposals
The report insists on the establishment of an institutional framework designated as the National Integrated Flood Management Group. This group, chaired by the Minister of Jal Shakti, would assume responsibility for flood control and management across India. Besides, it would also coordinate and build synergies among all agencies responsible for flood management and their effects on life and property.
Repercussions of Climate Change on Indus Water Treaty
The committee has pinpointed the impacts of climate change that have not been considered in the Indus Water Treaty. These include alterations in rainfall patterns, glacial melt, and increasing occurrences of disasters like landslides and flash floods.
The Indus Waters – Utilisation and Challenges
India’s exploitation of the Eastern Rivers through various dams has been highlighted in the report. However, it has also drawn attention to the deteriorating state of canals in Punjab and Rajasthan, leading to lowered water carrying capacity. Consequently, these waters end up being released downstream into Pakistan. The report stresses the implementation of new projects and repairs of canal systems to enhance their capacity.
Need for Renegotiation of the Indus Water Treaty
Given the contemporary concerns about climate change and environmental impacts, the report asserts the necessity of renegotiating the 1960 Treaty. The aim is to create a legislative framework to address climate change impacts on water availability in the Indus basin and other challenges not covered under the Treaty.
China’s Interventions on Brahmaputra
The committee has expressed worry over China’s “run of the river” projects, which could potentially lead to substantial variations in downstream flow, affecting India’s efforts to optimize the region’s water resources. Consequently, it suggests constant monitoring of Chinese activities to safeguard against any adverse national impacts.
Cooperation with Bhutan
A scheme called the “Comprehensive Scheme for Establishment of Hydro-meteorological and Flood Forecasting Network on rivers Common to India and Bhutan” is currently in operation. This network, funded by India and maintained by the Royal Government of Bhutan, offers vital data for formulating flood forecasts in India. A Joint Group of Experts on Flood Management has also been constituted to devise appropriate remedial measures for recurrent floods and erosion in the southern foothills of Bhutan and adjoining plains in India.
