ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has opposed India’s request to halt the World Bank’s proceedings regarding the disputed Ratle and Kishanganga hydropower projects being constructed by India on rivers in Indian-administered Kashmir.
According to Indian media reports, India has written to World Bank-appointed neutral expert Michel Lino, stating that it has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, and therefore, action on the Ratle and Kishanganga projects should be stopped.
In response, the World Bank sought Pakistan’s stance on the matter, and Pakistan strongly opposed India’s request. Pakistan maintains that both projects violate the Indus Waters Treaty, particularly in terms of failing to meet the minimum flow requirements of the rivers.
Government sources indicate that India is attempting to halt the neutral expert’s review of the Ratle and Kishanganga hydropower projects. The World Bank had appointed a neutral expert specifically to examine these controversial projects.
Sources said India is using its claim of suspending the Indus Waters Treaty as a justification to stop the proceedings. However, the World Bank has clearly stated that the treaty cannot be unilaterally suspended.
Officials confirmed that Pakistan will continue to defend and protect its water rights through all appropriate international forums. Pakistan has expressed objections to the design of Indian hydropower projects on the Jhelum and Chenab rivers.
According to official sources, the neutral expert’s proceedings on the Ratle and Kishanganga projects will not be halted under any circumstances.
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