THE HAGUE( The COW News Digital )The Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague has issued a landmark ruling in favor of Pakistan, ordering India to allow uninterrupted flow of water from the Western rivers to Pakistan under the Indus Waters Treaty. The decision was welcomed by Pakistan as a significant victory.
The binding award, released on August 8, 2025, stems from arbitration proceedings initiated by Pakistan against India on August 19, 2016, under Article IX of the Indus Waters Treaty. The ruling specifically addresses Article 3, which governs the usage of the Western rivers—Jhelum, Chenab, and Indus.
The tribunal stated the fundamental principle that India must permit the free and unobstructed flow of water from the Western rivers to Pakistan. While the treaty permits limited exceptions, such as hydroelectric projects, these exceptions must be narrowly interpreted. The design and operation of run-of-the-river hydroelectric plants must comply strictly with treaty provisions rather than India’s preferred practices.
The court emphasized that issues concerning the balance of rights and responsibilities between the two countries should be resolved through treaty notifications, objections, and dispute resolution mechanisms to promote cooperation.
India repeatedly challenged the tribunal’s jurisdiction and refused to participate in the proceedings. However, the court ensured India was kept informed and given opportunities to engage. The award took into account India’s positions through available evidence, correspondence, and historical dispute resolutions under the treaty.
To verify Pakistan’s claims, the tribunal undertook additional steps, including requesting further written submissions, holding hearings, and reviewing historical evidence related to the treaty and the Permanent Indus Commission.
The ruling covers broad interpretative questions of the treaty, including the operation of India’s run-of-the-river hydroelectric plants on the Western rivers. It clarifies that decisions of dispute resolution bodies, such as arbitral tribunals and neutral experts, are final and binding, with no provision for appeals.
The tribunal also prohibited the construction of low-level outlets on the Western rivers unless absolutely necessary, and even then, such outlets must minimize water diversion and operate at the highest possible levels.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office welcomed the ruling, highlighting its importance amid India’s recent suspension of the treaty and boycott of arbitration proceedings. Islamabad reaffirmed its commitment to full implementation of the treaty and urged India to restore normal treaty operations and honor the court’s decision in good faith.
Experts hailed the verdict as a major success for Pakistan’s longstanding position. Former Indus Water Commissioner Jamaat Ali Shah called it a “great victory,” while former Law Minister Ahmer Bilal Soofi noted the decision strengthened Pakistan’s global standing and rejected India’s jurisdictional objections.
