India Restricts Baglihar Dam Water Flow to Pakistan After Indus Treaty Suspension
New Delhi, May 5, 2025. According to reputable government sources, India has reportedly limited water flow from the Baglihar Dam into Pakistan following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, which might aggravate regional tensions.
The action comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nuclear-armed rivals. Officials acquainted with the situation acknowledged that the flow of water through the Baglihar Dam, located on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir, has been purposefully reduced, signaling a significant shift in water-sharing dynamics that have remained relatively constant for over six decades.
Background: The Indus Water Treaty
The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 under World Bank leadership, is regarded as one of the world’s most successful water-sharing accords. It assigns the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej) to India and the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab) to Pakistan, while granting India restricted usage rights for agriculture and hydropower projects on the western rivers.
The treaty has withstood numerous wars and skirmishes, serving as a rare source of collaboration in an otherwise tumultuous relationship. However, recent geopolitical developments have put such a partnership at risk.
Why Was the Water Cut?
The move to restrict water flow via the Baglihar Dam is said to be part of India’s overall response to rising cross-border tensions and security concerns. While the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has yet to issue an official announcement, sources indicate the move was made in response to Pakistan’s alleged involvement in cross-border activities that India considers unfriendly.
Experts believe that suspending the treaty and cutting off water supplies might serve as both a political signal and a strategic lever.
Pakistan’s Likely Response
Pakistan has not formally replied to the recent development but has previously warned that any disruption of the Indus Waters Treaty would be considered a “hostile act.” With the Chenab River serving as one of Pakistan’s key irrigation sources, any restrictions on water flow might have a substantial impact on agricultural and water availability in the region.
Pakistani authorities may seek to take the dispute to international institutions such as the United Nations and the International Court of Justice, claiming that India is violating a legally binding pact.
What’s next?
Analysts feel that this decision may have long-term implications for regional stability and bilateral relations. While some perceive it as a tactical pressure point, others caution that if not handled properly, it might lead to accidental escalation.
International observers are encouraging both states to resume discussion. The World Bank, which has previously acted as a mediator in treaty disputes, may be called upon again to assist in defusing the crisis.
Meanwhile, inhabitants in Pakistan’s downstream districts are expected to bear the brunt of the consequences, with farmers and communities prepared for severe shortages.