India trims Chenab flow, speeds up power projects
In a bid to exert pressure on Pakistan during the Kharif season, India is adhering to its policy of restricting the flow of water in the Chenab River as the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) remains in abeyance. Simultaneously, the country has accelerated construction of hydroelectric projects on the river.
Water discharge from two crucial dams, Baglihar in Ramban and Salal in Reasi, has been curtailed, leading to a drop in water levels in the Chenab. On Friday, only one gate of the Salal dam reservoir was opened, resulting in a reduced water flow into the river, while all gates of the Baglihar dam remained closed. Both are run-of-the-river hydroelectric projects. Water was released solely for power generation to rotate turbines.
Pakistan had earlier expressed concern that a water shortage in the Chenab could adversely impact its Kharif crop season. However, following recent tensions and a subsequent ceasefire between the two nations, India has stated that the IWT will remain suspended until further notice.
With the treaty on hold, Indian authorities are no longer notifying Pakistan about the release or restriction of water flows from various dams in Jammu and Kashmir, a practice that was previously followed.
India has also resolved to expedite construction of hydroelectric projects that had earlier drawn objections from Pakistan under the IWT.
On Thursday, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo visited Kishtwar district to inspect the status and progress of two major hydroelectric projects — the 850 MW Ratle and the 390 MW Dul Hasti.
“At the Ratle project, located in Drabshalla block, the Chief Secretary was briefed on the current status and progress on the project. He also reviewed progress on construction works, visited power intake structure, coffer dam, underground powerhouse complex, tail raised tunnel and assessed implementation status of various project components,” an official said.
He added that Dulloo issued immediate instructions to the authorities concerned to speed up construction and ensure timely completion of the project.
