India Halts Water Flow to Pakistan from Chenab and Jhelum Rivers

India has significantly reduced water flow to Pakistan from the Baglihar Dam on the Chenab River and is preparing to cut off flow from the Kishanganga project on the Jhelum River. Following extensive discussions and hydrological testing, India began de-silting operations at the Baglihar Dam on Saturday, lowering sluice gates and reducing downstream water flow to Pakistan by up to 90%. Maintenance work is also set to begin on the Kishanganga dam, with similar measures planned.

The move comes shortly after Pakistan tested a surface-to-surface ballistic missile on Saturday, escalating tensions between the two nations. India’s actions are a direct response to the ongoing strain in the region, exacerbated by recent violence in Kashmir. India has paused the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), which has governed water-sharing between the two countries for over six decades, following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which killed several tourists.

In parallel, India is progressing with multiple hydropower projects on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir, including Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle, which are expected to be operational by 2027-28.