Brussels/Islamabad, (Unib Rashid) — The Government of Pakistan has welcomed the important decision issued by the International Court of Arbitration on May 15, 2026, regarding India’s Ratle and Kishanganga hydroelectric projects.

According to the ruling, the court upheld Pakistan’s position and emphasized that India is strictly bound by the limits set under the Indus Waters Treaty while constructing large dams on the western rivers.

The court further stated that India cannot increase water storage capacity through false or exaggerated technical claims. The decision also clarified that India is obligated to provide Pakistan with all necessary technical information to ensure compliance with the treaty provisions.

Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its rights under the Indus Waters Treaty and reiterated its resolve to pursue the peaceful resolution of water disputes through legal and diplomatic channels.

A spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Office stated that the supplementary award issued by the Court of Arbitration validates Pakistan’s stance under the treaty framework. The ruling makes it clear that India must adhere to treaty limitations in the design and construction of hydroelectric projects on western rivers.

The government maintained that the water storage capacity of any project must be justified on genuine technical and hydrological grounds. Pakistan described the decision as a significant diplomatic and legal success and vowed to continue utilizing all available international forums to safeguard its water rights.

Experts believe that the ruling could have far-reaching implications for the future review and assessment of disputed water infrastructure projects in the region.