Senator Sherry Rehman condemned India’s approval of the Dulhasti Stage-II hydropower project on the Chenab River, calling it “neither sane nor acceptable.” She stated that this approval violates the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), which cannot be unilaterally revoked.
Rehman explained that under the IWT, Pakistan controls the waters of the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers, while India has rights over the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers. She warned that India’s decision is part of a broader strategy to fast-track several disputed hydroelectric projects in the Indus Basin, including Sawalkot, Ratle, Bursar, Pakal Dul, Kwar, Kiru, and Kirthai-I and II.
Weaponisation of Water and Regional Tensions
Rehman emphasized that weaponising water resources is dangerous in a region already facing climate change and environmental stress. She noted that such unilateral actions could inflame tensions in bilateral relations already marked by distrust and hostility.
The Dulhasti Stage-II project, located in Kishtwar district of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, has a capacity of 260MW. It follows the recent approval of the 1,856MW Sawalkot project on the Chenab River, aimed at harnessing the river’s hydropower potential.
International Observations and Legal Framework
UN experts recently expressed concern over India’s “unlawful use of force” following the April Pahalgam attack, noting potential violations of Pakistanis’ rights to life and security. India had put the IWT in abeyance after the attack, which Pakistan criticized as an “act of war” since the treaty does not allow unilateral suspension.
In June, the Permanent Court of Arbitration clarified that India cannot unilaterally hold the IWT in abeyance. UN rapporteurs also observed that India’s actions could disrupt water flows to Pakistan, affecting agriculture and livelihoods.
Impact on Pakistan’s Agriculture
Earlier this month, Pakistan’s Foreign Office sought clarification from India regarding abrupt changes in the Chenab River flow. The variation has significantly impacted wheat and other crops supplied through the Marala-Ravi link and canals in Punjab. Pakistani officials stressed that unilateral alterations of river flows harm food security and violate treaty obligations.
Calls for Compliance and Dialogue
Rehman’s statement underlined the need for India to respect international agreements and avoid using water resources as leverage. She urged both countries to engage in constructive dialogue to prevent escalation and ensure equitable water distribution.
Experts warn that ongoing unilateral projects could exacerbate regional instability and undermine climate resilience efforts in both countries.
