Nation

IIE Digital Desk : The Indian government has closed the sluice gates of the Baglihar and Salal dams on the Chenab River, leading to a dramatic decrease in water levels at Akhnoor in Jammu and Kashmir. This action follows India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives and was attributed to Pakistani-based militants.

The closure of the dams has resulted in the Chenab River's water level dropping to unprecedented lows, with some areas near Akhnoor witnessing levels as shallow as 1.5 to 2 feet. Locals, who have never seen such conditions, expressed both surprise and support for the government's decision, viewing it as a strong stance against cross-border terrorism. One resident noted, "Earlier, the Chenab River used to flow at a height of 25-30 feet, but now there is hardly 1.5-2 feet of water left here." 

Constructed as run-of-the-river projects, both the Baglihar and Salal dams allow India to regulate, though not indefinitely block, water discharge into Pakistan. The recent actions are part of a broader strategy to assert control over water resources previously governed by the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty. The treaty had allocated usage rights of the Indus river system between the two nations, with the Chenab River being a significant component. 

The Indian government's decision to suspend the treaty and regulate water flow has been met with approval domestically. BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, stating, "It takes political will to make tough decisions in India's interest, and Prime Minister Modi has demonstrated that through his actions. This is the muscular Modi Doctrine, firm and unwavering in its fight against terrorism." 

While the immediate impact on Pakistan's water supply remains limited, the move signals a significant shift in India's approach to bilateral water agreements, especially in the context of national security concerns. The situation continues to evolve, with potential implications for regional stability and international diplomatic relations.