India vs Pakistan War: After scrapping Indus Waters Treaty, Modi govt to punish Pakistan with 3 more blows, may stop sharing…, likely to fast-track….

According to media reports, India is also considering stopping all future meetings with Pakistan related to the IWT. This includes regular discussions and updates that are part of the treaty framework.

After walking away from the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), India is reportedly preparing to take more steps that could trouble Pakistan. According to reports, the Indian government is now planning to fast-track several stalled hydro projects that had been held up due to restrictions under the IWT. One key requirement under the treaty is that India must give Pakistan six months’ notice before starting any new project. According to media reports, India is also considering stopping all future meetings with Pakistan related to the IWT. This includes regular discussions and updates that are part of the treaty framework.

As per an Economic Times report, the Indian government is planning to speed up work on hydroelectric projects along the Chenab, Jhelum, and Indus river system, particularly from the Kiru to Kwar project axis. These efforts could potentially generate nearly 10,000 megawatts of power in the Himalayan region. In the past, many of these projects faced delays due to objections raised by Pakistan under the treaty.

Another potential move by India could be stopping the sharing of hydrological data with Pakistan, including flood-related information. Under the IWT, India is required to share such data monthly and quarterly. However, the report says India is now reviewing all legal aspects related to this and may reconsider whether it wants to continue sharing this sensitive river information in the future.

What will be the benefit?

If work picks up pace on key hydroelectric projects like the 540 MW Kwar, 1000 MW Pakal Dul, 624 MW Kiru, 390 MW Kirthai-I, 930 MW Kirthai-II, and the 1856 MW Sawalkot, it will lead to a major increase in electricity supply for Jammu and Kashmir.

Apart from boosting local electricity availability, these projects will also support India’s broader power strategy. Several important plans—such as Tulbul, Baglihar, Kishanganga, Ratle, Uri, and Lower Kalnai—were delayed due to objections raised by Pakistan under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). With India moving away from the treaty’s constraints, work on these stalled projects could now resume.

Additionally, India had been restricted from carrying out reservoir flushing on existing dams. This is a crucial process used to manage silt buildup in reservoirs. It involves releasing high flows of water to flush out the accumulated sediment, which helps maintain the reservoir’s storage capacity and improves its efficiency. Now, with IWT restrictions potentially lifted, India might be able to use this technique more freely to extend the lifespan of its dams and improve power generation.