The Chenab River is drying up due to dam closures

In a surprising turn of events, locals gathered on the riverbed as the water level in the Chenab river in Jammu’s Akhnoor area fell below waist level for the first time in years. The drop in water level followed the closure of all sluice gates at the Salal and Baglihar hydel power dams in Reasi and Ramban districts on Sunday morning. Sources said that authorities closed the gates to store water in the reservoirs of both dams after they had emptied them as part of a desiltation process earlier in the week.

Although officials have not confirmed the development, India took a significant step by regulating the flow of water from these dams. The Baglihar and Salal dams, built as run-of-the-river projects, enable India to control the timing of water releases downstream. Pakistan had raised objections during their construction, claiming the dams would affect the river’s flow, and sought the World Bank’s intervention.

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Chenab River: India’s Leverage in Managing Water for Irrigation

India’s ability to regulate water release gives it leverage in managing the flow of Chenab river’s waters, which farmers on both sides of the border depend on for irrigation. While rabi harvesting is ongoing, the upcoming paddy season, which starts in a month or two, requires careful water management.

By closing the sluice gates, India sent a strong message to Pakistan about its control over the river’s water. Sources said that while the dams cannot hold water for long periods, they allow India to regulate the flow, which could impact Pakistan’s water supply. This action demonstrated India’s willingness to take coercive steps, especially since the Chenab river irrigates farmlands in Punjab.

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Authorities Warn of Rising Water Levels as Karan Bridge Remains Surface

Local authorities warned people not to cross the river as the water level was expected to rise again after rainfall in the catchment area. Police cleared crowds from the riverbed as the water level began rising in the afternoon, using loudspeakers to issue warnings. The riverbed revealed remnants of the Karan bridge, washed away in the 1992 floods, adding to the historical significance of the event.