India stops Neelum River water flow from Kishanganga Dam

May 22, 2025 (MLN): In a stark breach of the Indus Waters Treaty, India has reportedly halted the natural flow of water into Pakistan’s Neelum River from the Kishanganga Dam, significantly reducing water pressure at multiple locations.

According to Athmuqam Police Superintendent, the flow in the Neelum River has dropped by 40% at eight identified points.

India has also intensified efforts on a controversial project aimed at linking the Chenab River with the Beas and Ravi Rivers a move seen as part of a broader strategy to deprive Pakistan of its rightful water share.

This escalation comes after India suspended its participation in the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty following an April 22 incident in Indian-administered Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed.

India attributed the attack to terrorism, while Pakistan has firmly denied any involvement.

Following the suspension, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed officials to fast-track projects along the Chenab, Jhelum, and Indus rivers all rivers primarily allocated to Pakistan under the treaty.

A major part of this plan involves expanding the Ranbir Canal from its current 60 km to 120 km, which would boost water diversion from 40 to 150 cubic meters per second.

The canal, originally constructed in the 19th century, passes from India into Pakistan's agricultural heartland in Punjab.

In contrast, China has expedited construction on the strategically vital Mohmand Dam, reflecting the project's growing significance for Pakistan’s water security.

Amid these developments, the Pakistani military issued a stern warning to India, cautioning that any attempts to disrupt Pakistan’s water rights under the Indus River system would trigger consequences lasting generations.

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