India Halts Salal Dam Operations on Chenab Following Pahalgam Attack, Reasi Water Levels Drop

Quick Summary

• Water was seen flowing from Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project Dam on Chenab River in Ramban, and all gates of Salal Dam on Chenab River were closed, leading to a meaningful drop in water levels in Reasi district.
• BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the action as part of the “muscular Modi Doctrine” against terrorism. He stated, “Blood and water cannot flow together.”
• Locals expressed support for the goverment’s decision to stop water flow to Pakistan following recent terror attacks, including one in Pahalgam.
• Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami described putting the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance as a bold step under PM Modi’s leadership.
• The Indus Waters Treaty (1960) allocates Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan and Eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India. It has endured over half a century despite conflicts between India and Pakistan.
• the treaty gives India 20% of water from the Indus River System and 80% to Pakistan but allows specific uses for shared rivers.Former US President Dwight Eisenhower praised it as “one radiant spot” during tense global times.

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Indian Opinion Analysis

The actions taken by Indian authorities regarding dams on rivers governed by the Indus Waters Treaty signal strong measures aimed at tightening India’s stance against cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan. While stopping or altering river flows is an unprecedented move that highlights India’s frustration with repeated provocations such as attacks like Pahalgam or Pulwama tragedies-a key concern remains regarding long-term regional stability given hydrological reliance implied by international agreements.The government’s doctrine that “blood and water cannot flow together” resonates strongly with public sentiment visible through local reactions supporting decisive action. Though, these steps may carry diplomatic consequences as revisiting established treaties frequently enough escalates tensions between nations involved. Maintaining neutrality while ensuring India’s security interests will be crucial going forward.