Indus Pact on Hold, Govt Plans Monthly Flushing of Salal and Baglihar Dams

Indus Pact on Hold, Government Plans Dam Flushing

(Source: Page 3, The Indian Express)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations, GS3 – Water Management, Environment

Context

With the Indus Water Treaty on hold, India plans to conduct monthly flushing of the Salal and Baglihar dams to clear silt and sediment. Pakistan has historically objected to such actions, citing impacts on downstream water flow.

Background:

• The Salal and Baglihar dams, located on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir, are run-of-the-river projects under India’s rights per the IWT. Flushing is a maintenance activity to ensure dam efficiency, but Pakistan argues it reduces water availability, affecting its agriculture.

Key Developments:

• India’s Plan: Monthly flushing to maintain dam functionality, especially after India’s suspension of IWT mechanisms.
• Pakistan’s Objections: Claims flushing violates IWT by altering water flow, a recurring point of contention.
• Strategic Move: India’s decision signals assertive water management amid strained bilateral ties.

IWT Provisions:

• Allows India to build run-of-the-river projects but requires minimal flow disruption.
• Pakistan’s right to object via the Permanent Indus Commission (currently suspended).

Strategic Implications:

• India’s actions may pressure Pakistan but risk escalating tensions.
• Potential for third-party mediation (e.g., World Bank).

UPSC Relevance:

• GS2: Bilateral relations and water diplomacy.
• GS3: Water resource management and environmental sustainability.

Analysis:

• Technical Necessity: Silt accumulation reduces dam efficiency and hydropower output. Flushing is standard but requires careful timing to minimize downstream impact.
• Diplomatic Tensions: Pakistan may escalate the issue to international forums like the World Bank or seek arbitration, as seen in past disputes (e.g., Kishanganga).
• Environmental Impact: Unregulated flushing could affect aquatic ecosystems and downstream agriculture, necessitating joint monitoring mechanisms.
• Long-Term Relevance: Water disputes will intensify with climate change, making this issue critical for future India-Pakistan relations.

Conclusion/Way Forward

• India should fast-track skill development programs for semiconductor engineering.
• Public-private partnerships and international collaborations (e.g., with Japan, US) can accelerate progress.
• A clear policy framework for IP protection and R&D incentives is essential.

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Practice Question: “India’s decision to flush dams amidst the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty reflects strategic assertiveness but risks diplomatic fallout.” Discuss the implications of this move and suggest measures to balance water management with India-Pakistan relations. (250 words, 15 marks)