Strains between India and Pakistan have dramatically mounted after India made a recent decision to drastically limit the flow of water from the Chenab River into Pakistan. This move, following India’s unilateral termination of the long-time Indus Waters Treaty, has raised grave doubts about the possibilities of water scarcity in Pakistan. The decrease stems from India using its reservoirs, particularly those linked to the Pakal Dul, Baglihar, and Salal hydroelectric projects.
Impact on Pakistan
The impact has been instantaneous and drastic. Accounts from the Marala headworks in Pakistan indicate a dramatic drop in water levels, with flows reducing from an estimated 35,000 cusecs to just 3,100 cusecs. Pakistani authorities have strongly objected, alleging India is siphoning off Pakistan’s rightful water quota to feed its dams. This, they argue, amounts to a grave violation of the Indus Waters Treaty. The most prominent concern is the danger of historic shortages to agriculture since large areas of land rely on the waters of the Chenab for irrigation.
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Dread of Flooding and Diplomatic Consequences
In addition to the direct agricultural effect, there are concerns that an abrupt opening of the stored water by India would unleash flood-like situations along the downstream, risking Pakistani settlements. Indian officials have said to be informing that activities such as de-silting and filling up are currently in progress at the Baglihar dam, with such activity to follow on other schemes. This heightened scenario underlines the delicate character of local water-sharing arrangements and demonstrates how access to water can soon become an instant flashpoint, especially against the backdrop of underlying geopolitical tensions.
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