“Water resources are both an asset and a source of conflict in South Asia.” Examine this statement giving examples. (Answer in 150 words)

- “Water resources are both an asset and a source of conflict in South Asia.” Examine this statement giving examples. (Answer in 150 words)
Introduction
South Asia possesses abundant rivers, glaciers and groundwater that sustain agriculture, energy and livelihoods, yet their transboundary nature often generates interstate and inter-state disputes.
Body
Water as an Asset:
1. Agriculture: The Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra river systems support intensive irrigation and food security.
2. Hydropower: Himalayan rivers provide major hydropower potential for Bhutan, Nepal and India.
3. Livelihoods: Rivers sustain fisheries, navigation, industries and dense settlements across the region.
4. Regional Cooperation: Agreements such as the Indus Waters Treaty and India-Bhutan hydropower cooperation demonstrate possibilities for shared benefits.
Water as a Source of Conflict:
1. India-Pakistan: Disputes arise over projects on the Indus system, including Kishanganga and Ratle.
2. India-Bangladesh: Teesta water-sharing remains unresolved.
3. India-Nepal: Issues over dams, floods and river projects periodically create friction.
4. Climate change and groundwater depletion further intensify competition.
Conclusion
Thus, South Asia’s water resources can promote prosperity or conflict, making equitable treaties, basin-level management and sustained regional cooperation essential.