Origins and Strategic Importance
The Indus River originates near Mount Kailash, flowing 3,180 km through Ladakh into Pakistan. The Sutlej begins at the Longchen Khabab glacier and covers about 1,450 km. These rivers sustain millions, particularly in arid regions, and power infrastructure like the Bhakra Dam.
China’s Role and Projects
China’s hydroelectric facilities near the river sources, such as those at Senge Tsangpo and Zada Gorge, enable it to alter water flows. This raises concerns, especially since China has previously restricted river flows, as seen with the Brahmaputra, for strategic leverage.
Geopolitical and Environmental Implications
Tensions between India and Pakistan—exacerbated after incidents like the Pahalgam attack—threaten the 1960 Indus Water Treaty. If India limits water to Pakistan, China could retaliate by restricting flow from Tibet, risking regional stability. However, controlling these rivers has technical and legal challenges, as only a portion of their flow originates in Tibet, and large dam projects face seismic and ecological risks.
Water from the Indus and Sutlej is not just a natural resource but a geopolitical tool. While data-sharing agreements exist, the lack of binding treaties between India and China leaves the region vulnerable. A multilateral water management framework is essential to ensure regional stability and sustainability.04:45 PM
