Daily Current Affairs : 4-June-2024
The Helmand River is a critical water source for both Iran and Afghanistan, making it central to the livelihoods, agriculture, and ecosystems of the region. However, the two neighboring countries have been locked in a long-standing dispute over the fair sharing of its waters, which continues to strain relations.
The Importance of the Helmand River
The Helmand River holds significant importance for both Iran and Afghanistan:
- Primary water source: It provides essential water for agriculture, which is vital for food production and economic activities.
- Ecological value: The river sustains local ecosystems, helping to maintain biodiversity in an otherwise arid region.
- Geographic details: The Helmand River is the longest river in Afghanistan. It originates in the Hindu Kush mountains and flows southward, ultimately emptying into the Sistan Basin. The river serves as the primary watershed for this endorheic basin, which is closed and does not drain into the ocean.
The Dispute Over Water Rights
The main cause of the dispute between Iran and Afghanistan lies in the allocation of water from the Helmand River. The two countries have different interpretations of a 1973 treaty that was meant to govern the sharing of water from this crucial river.
- Iran’s Concerns: Iran accuses Afghanistan of not fulfilling its obligations under the 1973 agreement, claiming that it has been receiving significantly less water than agreed. This shortage has a direct impact on agriculture and the livelihoods of people in the Sistan region of Iran.
- Afghanistan’s Argument: On the other hand, Afghanistan defends its position by attributing the reduced flow of water to natural factors, particularly the changing climate and lack of sufficient rainfall. Afghanistan claims that climatic conditions, rather than intentional actions, have led to less water reaching Iran.
Climatic and Environmental Factors
While the dispute is rooted in the legal and political dimensions of the water-sharing agreement, climatic and environmental factors play a crucial role:
- Climate change: The region has been experiencing reduced rainfall and rising temperatures, which have led to lower water levels in the Helmand River.
- Water scarcity: Both countries are facing increasing water scarcity, further intensifying the competition for this vital resource.
Important Points:
Helmand River Significance:
- Longest river in Afghanistan, vital for agriculture, livelihoods, and ecosystems.
- Flows through the Endorheic Sistan Basin, which does not drain into the ocean.
The 1973 Treaty:
- Iran and Afghanistan signed an agreement to share the river’s waters.
- Dispute arises over alleged violations of the treaty terms.
Iran’s Concerns:
- Iran claims Afghanistan is not providing the agreed-upon amount of water.
- Water shortages impact agriculture and livelihoods in Iran’s Sistan region.
Afghanistan’s Defense:
- Afghanistan attributes reduced water flow to natural factors, particularly climate change and lower rainfall.
Environmental Factors:
- Reduced rainfall and rising temperatures due to climate change contribute to water scarcity.
- Both countries face increasing pressure on water resources.
Need for Cooperation:
- A fair and sustainable resolution is necessary for both countries to ensure long-term water security.
- Dialogue and international cooperation are essential for resolving the dispute.
Why In News
Iran and Afghanistan have been engaged in a long-standing and increasingly tense dispute over the sharing of water from the Helmand River, a critical resource for both nations’ agriculture and livelihoods.
MCQs about The Helmand River Water Dispute
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What is the primary source of conflict between Iran and Afghanistan regarding the Helmand River?
A. Disagreements over the river’s geographical course
B. Disputes over water rights and the 1973 treaty
C. Climate change effects on water quality
D. Religious differences
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Which of the following is a major factor contributing to reduced water flow in the Helmand River, according to Afghanistan?
A. Industrial pollution
B. Climate change and lack of rainfall
C. Deforestation along the riverbanks
D. Overuse of water by Iranian farmers
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The Helmand River is important because it serves as a water source for:
A. Military operations in both Iran and Afghanistan
B. Agricultural activities, livelihoods, and ecosystems
C. Hydroelectric power generation
D. International trade routes
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Why is the 1973 treaty between Iran and Afghanistan significant?
A. It outlines the political borders between the two countries.
B. It was meant to govern the sharing of water from the Helmand River.
C. It addresses military cooperation between the two nations.
D. It defines the rights to the oil resources in the region.
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