Baglihar and Kishanganga Dams
India’s recent decision to halt water flow through the Baglihar Dam on the Chenab River marks development in its water management strategy. This action follows a series of discussions and hydrological assessments. The move is seen as a response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after a tragic terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
Indus Waters Treaty
The Indus Waters Treaty was established in 1960 to regulate water sharing between India and Pakistan. It designates the Indus River and its tributaries for specific uses by each country. India has rights to the eastern rivers while Pakistan has rights to the western rivers, including the Chenab and Jhelum. The treaty was mediated by the World Bank and has been a mainstay of water management in the region.
Baglihar and Kishanganga Dams
The Baglihar Dam, located in Jammu and Kashmir, is a run-of-the-river project with a capacity of 900 MW. It has been operational since 2008 and underwent expansion in 2015. The Kishanganga Dam, situated in Gurez, has a capacity of 330 MW. Both dams have faced scrutiny from Pakistan, which claims their designs violate the Indus Waters Treaty.
Recent Developments in Water Management
India commenced de-silting operations at the Baglihar Dam, reducing water flow to Pakistan. Reports indicate that downstream flow has been cut by up to 90%. Similar maintenance work is planned for the Kishanganga Dam.
Implications
The suspension of water flow has raised concerns in Pakistan. Water is a critical resource for agriculture and hydroelectric power generation. Pakistan views any reduction in water flow as a violation of the Indus Waters Treaty and a potential act of aggression. The situation is exacerbated by the recent terror attack, which has heightened bilateral tensions.
Ongoing Hydropower Projects in Jammu and Kashmir
India is progressing on four hydropower projects in Jammu and Kashmir. These projects are expected to be commissioned by 2027-28. They include Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle. The implementation involves a partnership between the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation and the Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation.
Legal and Diplomatic Challenges
Both the Baglihar and Kishanganga dams have faced legal challenges from Pakistan. The World Bank has been involved in mediating disputes over the dams. Past rulings have generally favoured India’s position. However, Pakistan continues to express concerns about the operational impact of these projects on its water rights.
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