Tensions between India and Pakistan have resurfaced following India’s decision to move ahead with the Sawalkote hydroelectric project on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. Islamabad has accused New Delhi of breaching the provisions of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and described the move as part of a broader “dewatering” strategy.
According to reports, India has initiated work on the ₹5,129 crore project after placing the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. In response, Pakistan has vowed to challenge the development through diplomatic and legal channels, asserting that the treaty remains a binding international agreement.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that infrastructure projects undertaken within Indian territory are based on its own interpretation and sovereign rights. Officials emphasized that the Sawalkote project falls within India’s developmental framework and is being pursued accordingly.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office has formally sought consultations and additional details regarding the project. Officials confirmed that the matter has been raised at the level of the Indus Water Commissioners, with letters reportedly sent in July and again in February requesting information and treaty-mandated consultations.
Tahir Andrabi, spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Office, reiterated that the Indus Waters Treaty continues to be legally binding and cannot be altered through unilateral action. He stated that Pakistan considers the issue critical to its national water security, noting that a significant portion of its water supply originates from western rivers, including the Chenab.
Pakistan has indicated that it will pursue the matter through international legal forums and has urged India to adhere strictly to treaty obligations. At the same time, Islamabad emphasized its commitment to resolving disputes peacefully through dialogue.
About the Sawalkote Project
The Sawalkote hydroelectric project is being developed by NHPC Ltd and is located in the Udhampur and Ramban districts of Jammu and Kashmir. The project lies on the Chenab River, positioned between the Baglihar project upstream and the Salal project downstream.
Key details include:
- Total Capacity: 1,856 MW
- Stage I: 1,406 MW
- Stage II: 450 MW
- Type: Run-of-the-river hydropower project
- Estimated Cost: ₹5,129 crore
- Completion Timeline: Approximately nine years, though the central government is reportedly pushing for faster execution
The project is seen as strategically significant, marking one of the major hydropower initiatives approved after the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty framework. It is also part of a broader effort by the Indian government to accelerate hydropower projects on the Chenab river system, including Pakal Dul, Kiru, and Ratle dams, aimed at enhancing power generation capacity and strengthening water management infrastructure.
As both countries maintain firm positions, the issue is likely to remain a focal point in India-Pakistan relations in the coming months.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
