Pakistan, India to hold Indus water meet in Islamabad

Islamabad: A three-day 117th meeting of Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) begins in Islamabad on Tuesday (March 1). 

In this regard, a nine-member delegation, headed by Indian Water Commissioner has arrived in Lahore.

During the meeting, Pakistan's observations on various Indian New Run-of-River Hydro-Electric Plants will be discussed.

The matter relating to sharing of flood information by the Indian side would also be reviewed.

Under the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty, signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, the two Commissioners are required to meet at least once every year, alternately in India and Pakistan. 

Last year the meeting of the PIC was held on March 23-24 in New Delhi.

The meeting could not be held in 2020 due to restrictions imposed on account of the COVID-19 pandemic situation. 

In 2021, discussions continued on designs of two Indian projects—Pakal Dul (1000 MW) and Lower Kalnai (48 MW). 

Pakistan side had requested India for sharing information on the design of other Indian hydropower projects being planned to be developed. 

Indian side, however, provided technical data in support of its position—under the provisions of the Agreement.