India has launched efforts to expand reservoir capacity at two major hydroelectric projects in Kashmir, marking a significant departure from the long-standing Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. Sources familiar with the development told Reuters that this move follows renewed hostilities between the two neighbors, prompting India to suspend the water-sharing agreement.
The Salal and Baglihar projects, located along the Chenab River, are undergoing a “reservoir flushing” operation to clear sediment buildup for the first time since their completion in 1987 and 2009, respectively. Conducted by NHPC Ltd, India’s largest state-run hydropower company, and local authorities in Jammu and Kashmir, the three-day process began on May 1. It involves temporarily releasing large amounts of sediment-laden water downstream before refilling the reservoirs—a move that may not immediately impact Pakistan’s water supply but could set a precedent.
The decision comes after India accused Pakistan of being linked to an attack in Kashmir last month that killed 26 people. In response, Islamabad denied involvement and warned that any attempt to block or divert water from Pakistan would be seen as an act of war.
Local residents along the Chenab River reported noticeable changes in water flow, sharing videos of fluctuating river levels during the operation. The sediment flush is aimed at restoring the full power-generating capacity of the dams, which have suffered from silt buildup that has reduced their efficiency.
Historically, the Indus Waters Treaty—signed in 1960—has withstood multiple conflicts, ensuring water-sharing arrangements between the nuclear-armed rivals. However, India’s latest move to halt treaty compliance signals a shift. Experts note that while India cannot immediately cut off water due to treaty constraints allowing only run-of-the-river projects, the suspension opens the door for more assertive actions.
A former head of India’s Central Water Commission remarked that India can now pursue its hydropower initiatives “at free will,” potentially reshaping regional water dynamics. The Indian government has also been pushing for treaty renegotiations, with disputes over storage capacities at the Kishenganga and Ratle projects currently being reviewed by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague.
India’s Ministry of Water Resources and NHPC have yet to comment officially on the situation.
