India’s Ministry of Environment has approved the 260MW Dulhasti Stage-II hydropower project on the Chenab River in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, 24NewsHD reported on Monday.
The Expert Appraisal Committee for hydropower projects cleared the way for construction tenders for the run-of-the-river project, which is estimated to cost over $356 million.
The Dulhasti Stage-II project will extend the existing 390MW Dulhasti Stage-I, operational since 2007.
The project has drawn strong criticism from Pakistan. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Vice President Sherry Rehman described it as a serious violation of the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a direct attack on Pakistan’s internationally recognized water rights.
Rehman warned that India’s move could endanger Pakistan’s water, agricultural, and environmental security and have strategic and defense implications. She accused India of using water as a geopolitical weapon, increasing tensions and instability in South Asia.
Highlighting recent reductions in Chenab River flows, Rehman said these were clear signs of Indian water aggression.
“The Indus Waters Treaty is not subject to the discretion of any single country; it is a document guaranteed under international agreements,” she said.
She added, “Water is Pakistan’s red line, and there will be no compromise on it.” Rehman further stated that India would face strong resistance and consequences if it did not reverse its approach.