ISLAMABAD – In a significant diplomatic and legal victory, Pakistan has won a water dispute case against India at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague over the interpretation of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). The binding Award, issued on August 8, 2025, upholds Pakistan’s right to unrestricted use of the Western Rivers — Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab — and restricts India’s ability to build and operate hydroelectric projects that could reduce water flows into Pakistan.
The court ruled that India must “let flow” the waters of the Western Rivers, with only strictly defined exceptions for hydroelectric generation, which must fully comply with IWT provisions. It prohibited low-level outlets except where strictly necessary for sediment control, required minimal pondage, and directed that dam designs avoid gated spillways wherever possible.
The PCA reaffirmed its jurisdiction despite India’s objections and its April 2025 unilateral move to hold the IWT in abeyance. It stressed that arbitration awards are final and binding on both parties and must guide all future neutral expert determinations.
Experts hailed the decision as a “great success” for Pakistan, saying it strengthens the country’s position in protecting downstream water rights. The Award does not yet decide the specific disputes over India’s Kishanganga and Ratle projects, which will be addressed in later proceedings.
Story by Zafar Bhutta
