India stops water flow from Salal dam after Baglihar dam on Chenab river

Plans to halt water from Kishanganga dam on Jhelum river
Pakistan likely to face severe water shortages

Jammu – In a significant diplomatic move against Pakistan, India has intensified measures by halting the flow of water from the Salal dam, following a similar action at the Baglihar dam on the Chenab river. Further action is being considered concerning the Kishanganga dam on the Jhelum river. These steps follow India’s decision to abrogate the Indus Waters Treaty, a development that could lead to a severe water crisis in Pakistan.

🚨 Chenab runs dry near Pakistan!

🇮🇳 Shuts sluice gates of Salal & Baglihar dams after Pahalgam terror attack

🌊 Water dips below waist level in J&K’s Akhnoor — locals stunned!

⚡️ Part of India’s diplomatic offensive against 🇵🇰 #IndiaPakistanWar pic.twitter.com/BhdNqpzQ59

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) May 5, 2025

1. The move follows a terrorist attack in Pahalgam in which 26 people were killed. In response, India decided to revoke the Indus Waters Treaty—an agreement brokered by the World Bank in 1960 that governs the use of the Indus river system between India and Pakistan.

2. The Baglihar dam, located in Ramban district, has been a long-standing point of contention between the 2 nations. Pakistan had previously approached the World Bank for mediation.

3. Indian authorities are also considering the construction of a new canal from Akhnoor to expand irrigation across the Jammu district, including areas like Ramgarh, and parts of Samba and Kathua districts.

4. Plans are under review to extend the historic Pratap canal, which originates in the Akhnoor, Jourian, and Khour regions, to deliver water to new areas.

5. According to sources, the aim is to ensure the Chenab river’s water benefits over 35 villages in the Pargwal sector, as well as the Kandi belts of Gharota and Kot Bhalwal.