Tensions between India and Pakistan have risen again after a deadly attack in Indian occupied Kashmir Pahalgam on April 22 which killed 26 people. India without giving any proof suggested Pakistan was involved. Pakistan however strongly denied the claims and called for an independent investigation.
Following this, India has reportedly suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and quietly started work on two major hydroelectric projects, the Salal and Baglihar dams located in Indian occupied Kashmir. According to Reuters, this includes a process called reservoir flushing which helps remove mud and sediment from the dams to improve electricity generation and protect the machinery.
This is the first time such cleaning has been done since these dams were built in 1987 and 2008-2009. India did not inform Pakistan before doing it even though the treaty required such communication.
The operation was carried out by NHPC which is the largest hydropower company of India and local authorities in the area. Sources said this work took place between May 1 and May 3.
One insider told Reuters that “The cleaning will make power production more efficient and avoid damage to the turbines.” Gates of the dams were opened for this purpose.
People living along the Chenab River in the occupied region said they clearly saw water being released during those days.
Also a video posted by Press Trust of India showed that India restricted water flow through the Baglihar Dam. It has raised concerns about future water supply to Pakistan which depends heavily on rivers that flow from India for farming and energy.
Also read this: What is the Indus Waters Treaty? And Its Current Situation
