The Jammu and Kashmir government is exploring new water infrastructure plans after the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. The proposals include diverting Ravi river water from Punjab to Jammu region, reviving the Tulbul Navigation Barrage project on Wular lake, and developing a major pumping arrangement on the Chenab river at Akhnoor. The moves are aimed at improving irrigation, navigation, and water availability in drought-prone areas.
Background to the Water Plan
The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, divided the six rivers of the Indus basin between India and Pakistan. India received full rights over the eastern rivers of Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej, while Pakistan was granted rights over the western rivers of Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab. The treaty had limited India’s ability to alter flows on some river systems in Jammu and Kashmir.
Tulbul Navigation Barrage Proposal
The Tulbul project, started in 1984, was stalled after Pakistan objected to it in 1987 under the treaty framework. The revived proposal seeks to maintain a minimum water depth in Wular lake to enable year-round navigation. Officials say this could help restore the lake’s utility and support nearby farmland by improving water regulation.
Ravi Diversion and Jammu Needs
The government has proposed diverting excess Ravi water from Punjab to Kathua and Samba districts, which face water stress. The Shahpur Kandi dam, located near Punjab, is expected to help stop excess Ravi water from flowing into Pakistan. A major pump from the Chenab at Akhnoor has also been proposed to meet future water requirements in Jammu.
Strategic and Regional Significance
These projects are being viewed as part of a broader effort to strengthen water security, irrigation, and regional development in Jammu and Kashmir. If implemented, they could improve agricultural support in barren and drought-hit areas, while also reviving long-pending water management plans linked to the suspended treaty framework.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026