India Releases Chenab River Water Amid Suspension of Treaty

India has released a significant amount of water into the Chenab River from the Salal and Baglihar dams in Jammu and Kashmir, according to a report by The Times of India. This release has caused a sudden surge in downstream water levels, triggering concern in Pakistan. The action comes amid escalating regional tensions following India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam.

Several gates of Reasi’s Salal dam were seen open. (Photo source: ANI)

Gates Opened at Salal and Baglihar Dams

A video shared by ANI shows the opening of several gates at Reasi’s Salal Dam, which is located on the Chenab River. According to sources from The Times of India, two gates were opened from approximately 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM on Friday to manage the rising water levels caused by heavy rainfall. The opening of these gates, along with two gates at the Baglihar Dam, significantly increased the flow of water into the Chenab River.

This sudden surge in water caused the flow at Head Marala, Pakistan, to rise from around 3,100 cusecs to 28,000 cusecs, prompting flood warnings in low-lying areas of Punjab. Authorities in Pakistan reportedly did not receive prior notification, which led the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) to voice objections regarding the breach of protocol. Emergency response teams were dispatched to the affected districts in Pakistan.

The Indus Water Treaty, signed in 1960, regulates water-sharing rights between India and Pakistan, designating the Chenab and other western rivers to Pakistan. Indian officials' decision to suspend the treaty and release water has been perceived by some Pakistani experts as an attempt to weaponize water in the midst of diplomatic tensions.

(Source: Financial Express)