Pakistan, July 6 -- Legal and geopolitical experts have emphasized the importance of preserving the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), warning that the use of water as a political instrument could trigger humanitarian, ecological and economic crises across South Asia.

Speaking to media, the experts cautioned that retaliatory hydro-politics could endanger millions of people in a region already facing severe environmental stress and food insecurity. Their remarks came in response to India's announcement placing the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance following the killing of 26 tourists in a militant attack in Pahalgam,Indian-administered Kashmir.

India has blamed cross-border militants for the incident, an allegation Pakistan has denied.

Dr.Asif Sa...