India Fast-Tracks Sawalkote Dam on Chenab, Rejects Pakistan's Treaty Violation Claims

Pakistan has expressed serious concerns over India's accelerated development of the Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir, amid the ongoing suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). Islamabad has accused New Delhi of pursuing a "dewatering policy" that could undermine Pakistan's water security, violating obligations under the 1960 bilateral agreement. The Foreign Office spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan will not compromise on its existential water rights and has formally sought detailed information and consultations through the Indus Water Commissioners.

The Sawalkote project, valued at approximately Rs 5,129 crore and planned for 1,856 MW capacity, marks a significant push in India's hydropower ambitions on the Chenab, one of the western rivers allocated primarily to Pakistan under the IWT. India has fast-tracked the initiative following its decision to place the treaty in abeyance last year after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, halting mechanisms like advance notifications and joint consultations. This has allowed greater flexibility for projects including Sawalkote, alongside others like Pakal Dul, Kiru, and Ratle, aimed at boosting domestic power generation and regional infrastructure.

India has firmly dismissed Pakistan's objections, asserting that the Sawalkote dam is a domestic developmental activity conducted within its territory based on its own understanding of the treaty's provisions. New Delhi maintains that run-of-the-river hydroelectric projects comply with the agreement's framework, which permits limited non-consumptive uses on western rivers while restricting storage and diversion. Officials have emphasized that such initiatives address India's energy needs and climate resilience without infringing on downstream flows in a manner that breaches the pact.

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The dispute highlights escalating tensions over water resources in the Indus basin, where Pakistan relies heavily on the system for agriculture and livelihoods. Islamabad has raised the issue at the level of water commissioners, including a recent letter demanding transparency, and signaled potential further legal recourse through mechanisms like the Court of Arbitration. The suspension of treaty processes has frozen bilateral dialogues, intensifying accusations from Pakistan that India is weaponizing water infrastructure amid strained relations.

This development underscores the strategic importance of the Chenab River in bilateral dynamics, with India viewing accelerated projects as essential for energy security in Jammu and Kashmir, while Pakistan perceives them as a threat to its downstream water availability. As both sides hold firm positions, the matter risks prolonging diplomatic friction in an already volatile relationship, with calls for renewed compliance and dialogue to safeguard shared water interests.

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