India Activates Key Border Project on Chenab; Pakistan's Lifeline Under Scrutiny

• India is rapidly accelerating four major hydroelectric projects on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir, strategically impacting Pakistan's water supply.
• Projects like Pakal Dul and Kiru are targeted for completion by December 2026, with Kwar by March 2028, and the sensitive Ratle Dam also being expedited.
• The Pakal Dul project (1,000 MW, 167m tall) is India's first 'storage' project on a western river flowing into Pakistan, giving India control over water release.
• The Chenab River is a critical part of the Indus Basin, which provides nearly three-quarters of Pakistan's water, making these projects a major concern for Islamabad.
• Energy Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's recent inspection underscores the Centre's firm directive to meet deadlines, rejecting Pakistan's objections to projects like Dulhasti Stage-2.

Why It Matters: India fast-tracks strategic Chenab projects, asserting control over water resources vital to Pakistan.