India Halts Chenab River Flow at Baglihar Dam Following Pahalgam Terror Attack

In a decisive move reflecting escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian government has completely shut down the sluice gates of the Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project Dam on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district. This action effectively suspends the river’s flow into Pakistan, marking a significant shift in water management strategy following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.

Strategic Water Management Amidst Rising Tensions

The closure of the Baglihar Dam’s gates comes in the wake of the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, including tourists and locals. In response, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), a long-standing agreement governing water sharing between the two nations. The suspension signifies India’s intent to leverage its upstream position on key rivers as a means of diplomatic pressure.

Implications for Pakistan and Regional Stability

The Baglihar Dam, a 900 MW run-of-the-river hydroelectric facility, has been a point of contention since its inception, with Pakistan raising concerns over its design and potential to control water flow. The current closure halts the Chenab River’s flow into Pakistan’s Punjab province, impacting irrigation and water supply. This move underscores the strategic importance of water resources in the geopolitical landscape of South Asia.

Future Outlook and Diplomatic Considerations

India’s decision to close the Baglihar Dam’s gates is part of a broader strategy to assert its position and respond to cross-border terrorism. While the immediate impact is on water flow, the long-term implications could influence diplomatic relations and regional cooperation on water resource management. Observers suggest that this action may prompt renewed discussions on the terms and enforcement of the Indus Waters Treaty.