Hydropolitics and Conundrum of Transboundary Water Issues: A Case Study of South Asia

Abstract

South Asia is bestowed with abundant natural resources and active manpower. A wide range of glaciers in Himalayan and its consecutive ranges make one of the biggest water systems in the world. Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Indus basins quench the thirst of almost one-fourth of the world population living in South Asia. However, hasty and unfair boundary demarcation, power asymmetries and unfair distribution of water have triggered water insecurity in the region. This study analyses the securitization of transboundary water in South Asia. Moreover, this study considers in detail the subject of hydropolitics in the context of South Asia. The prospects of conflict and cooperation over transboundary water sharing have also been discussed. The special focus has been brought to investigate the dynamic interplay of power politics over water between India and Pakistan and its ultimate impact on the region. The results suggested that water is no longer a political issue in South Asia, rather it has now become a security issue and can pose threats to the sovereignty of states and their populace. However, the hydro hegemony of India and nuclear parity between India and Pakistan urge the South Asian states to cooperate rather than inciting war and conflicts over water issue.