India to set up hydropower project on river Chenab : Pakistan upset

Pakistan Parliament member Sherry Rehman

Islamabad – During Operation Sindoor, India had abrogated the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan. This decision had come as a big shock to Pakistan. Now, India has taken another step by approving the Dulhasti-2 hydroelectric project on the Chenab river. This has increased unease in Pakistan. After the abrogation of the Indus Water Treaty, Pakistan had threatened to shed blood instead of water.

1. An expert committee of India’s environment ministry approved the Dulhasti-2 hydroelectric project on the Chenab River in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, earlier this month.

2. This hydroelectric project will cost Rs 3,200 crore.

3. Through this decision, India has given a clear message to Pakistan that no compromise will be made on national interest. Earlier, while revoking the Indus Water Treaty, India had made it clear that water and blood cannot flow together.

4. Chenab water is considered essential for agriculture in Pakistan. Farmers are heavily dependent on this river. This will create even greater difficulties for Pakistan, which is already going through an economic and social crisis.

5. Reacting to this, Pakistan Parliamentarian Sherry Rehman said, “It is not right to use water as a weapon. Since there is already distrust and hostility between the two countries, if the Chenab water is stopped, relations will be further strained. India has given its consent to the Dulhasti-2 project on the Chenab river in violation of the Indus Water Treaty. This treaty cannot be unilaterally abrogated.” (While there was a ceasefire, Pakistan broke it several times and fired at India. Where was Sherry Rehman at that time? Therefore, it is better for Pakistan not to talk about the violation of the treaty. – Editor)

Editorial Perspective

It is good that India is using different options to block Pakistan’s water; but it will only come to its senses if it takes aggressive military action against it, that is the truth.