Anger has spread across the country over the death of 26 innocent people in a terrorist attack in Pahelgam. In view of this, the Indian government has taken a tough stance against Pakistan. Along with various diplomatic decisions, pressure has also been increased in terms of water. All the gates of the Baglihar and Salal hydroelectric projects built on the Chenab River have been closed. As a result, water supply to Pakistan has practically stopped to a large extent.
The Chenab River is included in the Indus Water Treaty. Under this historic agreement signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, the water sharing rights of the Indus River system—that is, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas and Sutlej—are determined. A large part of Pakistan's agricultural system depends on the water of these rivers. In this situation, when India closed the gates of the Chenab, it became clear that New Delhi is taking a strong position in terms of water as well as diplomacy.
However, to ensure that the complete drying up of the Chenab does not affect the aquatic biodiversity, a limited amount of water is being released through a single gate as per routine. However, many feel that this is not enough. Local residents claim that where the water of the river used to flow at a height of 25-30 feet, now it has reduced to just 2 feet. They said that in the interest of the country, not a single drop of water should go to Pakistan. They have supported this decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In the midst of this incident, the water of the Chenab river is likely to rise due to heavy rains on May 2 in Akhnoor in Jammu region. The local administration has issued a warning and asked people around the river to move to safer places.
Apart from stopping the water of the Chenab, several other strict steps have been taken by the Indian government. The Indus Water Treaty has been suspended for the time being. In addition, the defense, naval, air and military advisors of the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi have been declared 'persona non grata' and ordered to leave the country within a week.
The government has said that there will be no soft stance against terrorism. The Pahalgam attackers will be found and severely punished. India's position is clear - if terrorism is supported, it will be responded to not only diplomatically, but if necessary, by creating pressure on fundamental issues like water.
