Breaking: India’s Baglihar Dam Becomes Strategic Tool in Water Dispute with Pakistan

India is taking decisive steps in its ongoing water dispute with Pakistan, with the Baglihar Dam at the forefront of this strategy. Located in Jammu's Ramban district, the Baglihar Dam has been a source of tension since its construction in the late 1990s. Pakistan raised concerns, claiming that India was using the dam to control water flow from the Chenab River, potentially impacting Pakistan's water supply. Despite Pakistan's objections, India proceeded with the project, securing approval with the help of the World Bank, and the dam now generates 900 MW of electricity. However, India now controls the flow of water through the dam, and with the Indus Water Treaty no longer in place, India can block or release water at will. Currently, during a lean period, the water level is low, but if India decides to release water from the dam suddenly, it could send over 1,000 cubic meters of water per second into Pakistan. This could lead to significant flooding in Pakistan, damaging crops like sugarcane, cotton, and other agricultural produce. Moreover, when water is released suddenly, it could also carry silt and debris, further damaging Pakistan’s farmland. India’s strategic control over the water gives it a powerful tool to apply pressure on Pakistan, potentially exacerbating the country's water crisis.

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