In a rare and dramatic sight, the water level in the Chenab River at Akhnoor in Jammu and Kashmir fell below waist height on Monday, prompting hundreds of residents to gather along and even enter its exposed riverbed. This marked one of the lowest levels recorded in years, with locals calling the event “unprecedented.”
Why Did It Happen?
According to officials cited by The Indian Express, the sudden dip resulted from the temporary closure of sluice gates at the Baglihar and Salal hydroelectric dams, located in Ramban and Reasi districts, respectively. These closures were part of routine desiltation operations carried out over the weekend to refill the reservoirs.
However, the timing raised eyebrows. Some officials also hinted at a strategic link to recent diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, especially after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. The drop comes shortly after the Indian government announced its intent to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, the 1960 pact that governs sharing of the Indus river system with Pakistan.
Tensions and Treaties
The Baglihar and Salal dams are run-of-the-river projects, meaning India can regulate water flow but not stop it permanently. These projects have long been a point of contention, with Pakistan having previously objected to their designs. The disputes even involved World Bank arbitration, leading to design compromises.
Rising Curiosity, Falling Caution
As the riverbed dried up significantly, locals rushed in — not just out of curiosity but to hunt for old coins, ornaments, or relics exposed by the receding waters.
However, by late afternoon, as the sluice gates were gradually reopened, the water levels began rising again. The Jammu and Kashmir Police had to intervene, using loudspeakers to warn of sudden water surges due to upstream rainfall and disperse the crowds for their safety.
Locals React
Villagers expressed awe and alarm. “We have never seen the Chenab like this,” said one resident, as quoted by PTI. Another remarked that the river’s bed had never been this exposed in living memory.
This unusual episode reflects not only the delicate balance of hydrological control and diplomacy but also the public’s fascination and vulnerability when nature and politics intersect.
