Already struggling with the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan now faces another challenge as the delayed Shahpur Kandi dam on the Jammu and Kashmir–Punjab border heads for completion by March 31.
Over the years, excess water from the Ravi has often flowed into Pakistan due to insufficient storage facilities in India. However, starting in April, this situation is set to change, further reducing the water flow to Pakistan.
Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources Minister Javed Ahmed Rana said that with the completion of Shahpur Kandi dam on the UT’s border with Punjab, the excess water from the Ravi river will stop flowing to Pakistan.
“Yes, excess water (from Ravi river) to Pakistan will be stopped. It has to be stopped," the minister said, adding that the project is critical for drought-hit Kathua and Samba districts.