India Diverts Ravi River Flow to IIOJK, Completing Shahpur Kandi Barrage

India has halted the flow of the Ravi River to Pakistan, citing the completion of the Shahpur Kandi barrage. On the Punjab-IIOJK border, this structure diverts 1,150 cusecs previously for Pakistan to IIOJK, irrigating over 32,000 hectares in Samba and Kathua.

Despite challenges, the project nears completion, marking a significant step in irrigation and power. Under the 1960 Indus Water Treaty, India holds rights to the Ravi, Sutlej, and Beas, aligning with this move.

The barrage’s completion maximizes Ravi utilization, redirecting water from the Lakhanpur dam within Indian territories. India’s strategic dam constructions on the eastern rivers, including the Bhakra, Pong, Pandoh, and Thein, ensure 95% utilization of its water share. Yet, reports highlight two million acre-feet from Ravi still reaching Pakistan unused. The Shahpur Kandi barrage’s completion signifies India’s enhanced control over its water resources.