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India Manipulates Chenab River Flow, Intensifies Water Dispute with Pakistan

Following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, India has intermittently closed dam gates, causing severe water shortages in Pakistan and flash-flood warnings downstream.

A view of Baglihar Dam, also known as Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project, on the Chenab river which flows from Indian Kashmir into Pakistan, at Chanderkote in Jammu region May 6, 2025. REUTERS/Stringer
Indian National Lok Dal’s state president Rampal Majra during a protest against Punjab government’s refusal to release water, in Kaithal on Monday. (HT photo)
Chief minister Bhagwant Mann addressing the House during the one day special session on Monday. (Ravi Kumar/HT)
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Overview

  • India has significantly reduced Chenab River flows to Pakistan by closing gates at the Salal and Baglihar dams, causing water levels to drop by up to 90% before releasing surges that triggered flash-flood warnings.
  • The Indus River System Authority in Pakistan has projected a 21% water shortage for the early Kharif crop season due to the reduced water supply, with potential impacts on agriculture and food security.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India's stance to prioritize national water use, asserting that Indian waters will now flow solely in India's interests.
  • India has expedited the construction of four major hydropower projects on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir, capitalizing on the treaty suspension to advance domestic energy goals.
  • Tensions between India and Pakistan remain high, with Pakistan warning that the water disruptions could escalate into a broader conflict as both nations exchange accusations and threats.