India commences construction on hydroelectric schemes following suspension of agreement with Pakistan: Insiders report
In the heart of India, the scenic Himalayan region of Kashmir is witnessing a surge in development plans - thanks to the Indian government's decision to boost the holding capacity of two hydroelectric projects. Sources in the know spill the beans to our site, revealing that this strategic move comes after New Delhi decided to put a halt to a water-sharing pact with its neighbor, Pakistan, following a devastating attack in Kashmir.
This isn't the first time India takes matters into its own hands, acting outside the Indus Waters Treaty, an agreement, uninterruptedly in place since 1960, despite three wars and multiple conflicts between the nuclear-powered rivals. In retaliation, Pakistan has raised a red flag, warning that any hindrance in water supply - or attempts to divert it - would be considered an act of war.
Last month, the Indus Waters Treaty between the two nations was suspended, affecting 80% of Pakistan's farmlands as India cut off water supply. The tension brewing has given birth to the 'reservoir flushing' process, a move to clear sediment from reservoirs. This operation, carried out by India's biggest hydropower company, NHPC, and regional authorities, could have far-reaching effects on Pakistan's irrigation and hydropower generation, if other projects follow suit.
The four major projects catching the spotlight are Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, and Ratle, all located on the Chenab River and boasting a combined capacity of over 3,000 MW. India is also accelerating the construction of several other projects, such as Bursar, Dulhasti II, Swalkote, Uri Stage II, and Kirthai II, expected to be completed in the next 3-5 years.
This power play could create a perfect storm of challenges, from water disputes and geopolitical tensions to environmental concerns and potential economic sanctions. With Pakistan already threatening legal action, things seem to be headed for a showdown between the two neighbors. Only time will tell how this drama unfolds.
The top stories now focus on the escalating water dispute and geopolitical tension between India and Pakistan, as India accelerates the construction of several hydroelectric projects in Kashmir, including Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, Ratle, and others. This move follows India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and halting of water supply to Pakistan, causing significant impact on Pakistan's industry, agriculture, and energy sector. The finance and politics sectors are also expected to face challenges, with potential economic sanctions and legal action from Pakistan looming as the two nuclear-powered rivals appear to be heading for a showdown.
