Transboundary River Conflicts, Cooperation, and Environmental Sustainability in South Asia

Transboundary river basins (TRBs) in South Asia are vital lifelines, supporting the livelihoods, agriculture, and economies of millions of people across the region. Since the political partitions of the subcontinent, water distribution in these basins has been a major issue, shaping agricultural productivity and economic growth. In the era of climate change, however, TRBs have become even more critical, as they are increasingly associated with disaster hotspots, environmental degradation, and resource-based conflicts. These challenges often translate into serious geopolitical tensions, making sustainable management essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in South Asia. This study explores the root causes of conflicts in the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra basins, shared by India, China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, and Nepal. Key disputes relate to water-sharing, hydropower projects, disaster management, cross-border pollution, climate change impacts, and inadequate mechanisms for data sharing, dispute resolution, and cooperation. Despite numerous treaties and agreements since independence, most issues remain unresolved. Large-scale infrastructure developed by upstream regions often reduce water availability downstream, creating socio-ecological threats and exacerbating tensions. The study argues that ecologically sustainable management, grounded in the principles of ‘equitable and reasonable utilisation’ and ‘no significant harm’, is the only viable pathway forward. Strengthening cooperation at local, national, and regional levels is critical for conflict resolution, resilience building, and long-term environmental sustainability in South Asia.