India Fast-Tracks 4 Chenab Dams, Tightening Grip on Pakistan's Water Lifeline

• India is expediting four major hydropower projects (Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar, Ratle) on the Chenab river system with strict deadlines.
• These projects are strategically crucial as the Chenab is part of the Indus Basin, considered Pakistan's lifeline for water and agriculture.
• Pakal Dul, India's first storage project on western rivers, will allow control over water flow timing, set for commissioning by December 2026.
• Kiru (Dec 2026), Kwar (March 2028), and the controversial Ratle (2028) dams are also being fast-tracked despite Pakistan's objections.
• The acceleration follows Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's inspection and comes as the Indus Water Treaty is "practically inactive."

Why It Matters: India is rapidly advancing Chenab river projects, strategically impacting Pakistan's water supply and control.