Jammu and Kashmir Water Strategy After Indus Treaty Pause

Treaty suspension and new policy direction

Jammu and Kashmir Water Strategy After Indus Treaty Pause: The Jammu and Kashmir government has proposed new water management measures after the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) was placed in abeyance in 2025. This treaty, signed in 1960, regulated water sharing between India and Pakistan for over six decades. The suspension has allowed India to reconsider its use of river waters flowing through the Union Territory.

The proposals were raised by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, focusing on better utilisation of river water for irrigation and development. These measures aim to improve water security, agriculture, and ecological stability in the region.

Static GK fact: The Indus river system originates from the Tibetan Plateau near Lake Mansarovar and flows through India and Pakistan into the Arabian Sea.

Revival of Tulbul Navigation Barrage

The Tulbul Navigation Barrage project is located on Wular Lake in Kashmir and was originally launched in 1984. The project was halted in 1987 after objections from Pakistan under the treaty provisions. Its main purpose was to regulate water flow and maintain minimum depth for navigation.

With the treaty now suspended, the government plans to revive the project to restore navigation and improve ecological conditions. Maintaining proper water levels in Wular Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, will also benefit nearby agricultural lands.

Static GK Tip: Wular Lake is located on the Jhelum river and is one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes.

Ravi river diversion for irrigation

The government has proposed diverting surplus water from the Ravi river to irrigate dry areas in Kathua and Samba districts of Jammu. This move is supported by the near completion of the Shahpur Kandi Dam, which will regulate river flow and prevent excess water from flowing into Pakistan unused.

The diversion project is expected to increase irrigation, boost agricultural productivity, and support rural development. It represents a strategic effort to fully utilise India’s share of water from the eastern rivers.

Static GK fact: The Ravi river originates in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh and is one of the five rivers of Punjab.

Chenab river pumping proposal

Another major proposal involves pumping water from the Chenab river in the Akhnoor region to meet long-term drinking and irrigation needs. This project is aimed at strengthening water availability in Jammu, especially in drought-prone regions.

This initiative will improve water supply infrastructure and reduce dependence on irregular rainfall. It also enhances regional resilience against climate variability.

Static GK Tip: The Chenab river is formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers in Himachal Pradesh.

Indus Waters Treaty framework and river allocation

Under the Indus Waters Treaty, the three eastern rivers—Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—were allocated to India. The western rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab—were mainly allocated to Pakistan, with limited usage rights given to India.

The treaty was facilitated by the World Bank and is considered one of the most successful water-sharing agreements globally. Its suspension marks a significant shift in regional water diplomacy.

Static GK fact: The Beas river is the only major river in India that flows entirely within Indian territory.

Strategic and economic significance

The new water initiatives will strengthen irrigation, restore ecological balance, and improve water availability. Projects like the Tulbul Navigation Barrage and Ravi diversion will support agriculture, navigation, and regional development.

These measures also demonstrate India’s effort to maximise its legal share of river waters. They will play a key role in improving economic stability and water sustainability in Jammu and Kashmir.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Jammu and Kashmir Water Strategy After Indus Treaty Pause: