It is heartening to note that there has been a thaw in the talks between the delegations of India and Pakistan on the river water dispute (June 2). Pakistan is now satisfied with the design data for the 240-MW Uri-II project provided by India and also India's acceptance of providing openings in the parapet of the Chutak project. However, some differences still exist on the Nimoo Bazgo and Chutak projects. This only shows that most of the problems can be solved if only there is openness, understanding and a bit of give and take between the two sides.
V. Seetharamiah,
Bangalore.
The water-sharing issue should be treated more in a humanitarian than in a political fashion. The Indus and its tributaries have not merely been rivers but cultural lifeline to the habitats on either side of the border. It has been a reason for civilisations like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro. The Vedas even would not have been written had these rivers not been there. A mere Indus Waters Treaty will not serve the purpose without involving the views of the people of the greater Indus Valley.
Ghanendra K. Nath,
Noida
