India’s Gain in Shahpur Kandi Balance Fuels Concerns in Pakistan – South Asian Voices
Published on: April 5, 2024.
Filed under:
Rewritten Article:
India’s completion of the Shahpur Kandi dam on February 25, 2024, at the border of Indian Punjab and Indian-administered Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) has reignited tensions between India and Pakistan over water resources. The dam, which took three decades to build, is permitted under the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and allows India to maximize the utilization of the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers for hydropower and irrigation. While this brings significant benefits to India, it also exacerbates Pakistan’s water security concerns and intensifies geopolitical tensions.
Benefits to India
The completion of the Shahpur Kandi dam has far-reaching benefits for India. It has the capacity to generate hydroelectric power and enhance irrigation capabilities, leading to increased agricultural productivity. The dam is projected to irrigate an additional 91,856 acres of farmland in Punjab and J&K, benefiting both regions. Additionally, it will generate 206 megawatts of electricity, contributing to India’s power grid.
Moreover, the construction of the dam signifies a shift in India’s approach towards the Indus Waters Treaty. It aims to optimize the economic potential of the rivers and provide greater benefits to J&K, which has historically been marginalized under the treaty. J&K will now receive a 20 percent share of the dam’s hydroelectric power, improving irrigation and bolstering rural livelihoods and food security in the region.
The completion of the Shahpur Kandi dam has also resolved a long-standing dispute between Punjab and J&K regarding the use of the Ravi’s water resources. The agreement addresses concerns about irrigation water and access to hydroelectric power, marking a significant political achievement.
Furthermore, the construction of the dam sends a strong message to Pakistan. India’s ability to control the flow of water to Pakistan, as permitted under the IWT, has added credibility to India’s threats of water restrictions during periods of tension between the two nations.
Repercussions for Pakistan
The completion of the Shahpur Kandi dam has sparked strong reactions in Pakistan. While some Pakistani media outlets have labeled it as “water terrorism,” the actual impact on water flow from India-controlled eastern rivers into Pakistan is not as substantial as suggested. The Ravi River’s water flow from India into Pakistan is modest compared to Pakistan’s reliance on the river for groundwater recharge in Lahore.
However, if Pakistan faces water shortages and if these issues attract public attention, it could further complicate the country’s political landscape. The reduced water flow from the Ravi may strain relations between Punjab and Sindh, affecting the coalition government formed after the recent general elections.
Recognizing that India is unlikely to back away from its investment in the Shahpur Kandi dam, it is crucial for both nations to adopt a collaborative approach to ensure the long-term viability of the Indus Waters Treaty. Regular meetings between the two countries should focus on mutually beneficial policies, regional cooperation on climate change impacts, and efforts to de-securitize water governance. This approach is essential for effectively managing water resources and fostering stability in the region.
Source: South Asian Voices
