Pakistan’s Indus Waters Commissioner Syed Muhammad Mehar Ali Shah spoke at a seminar on Tuesday, stating he had sent four previous missives to his Indian counterpart regarding the Chenab River’s flow changes since April. The Indian side has yet to respond.
He mentioned that the last communication was made overnight concerning significant fluctuations in the Chenab’s water levels. Under the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960, India retains control over eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas and Sutlej) while Pakistan controls western rivers (Indus, Jhelum and Chenab).
The treaty also includes provisions for data sharing and dispute resolution mechanisms. Shah highlighted that the Chenab’s water levels are not just a technical issue but pose strategic risks.
He emphasized that India should answer about these fluctuations as they affect Pakistan’s downstream interests. Despite efforts to maintain communication channels, Pakistan received no response from the Indian side, which he sees as risky.
Source: Original report
About the Author
