New Delhi
4 June 2007
After invoking the arbitration provisions in the case of 450 mega watt
Baglihar power project being built by India on the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir,
Pakistan has set its sights on the 240 MW Uri power project being constructed on the
Jhelum river in the state.
Pakistan has raised questions over the design, pondage capacity and gates of the Uri
project and suggested that it might seek World Bank intervention if India did not stop
work on it. It had approached the World Bank for the Baglihar project but the World
Bank's verdict in March went in favour of India.
Pakistan raised the matter of Uri power project in the recently concluded meeting of the
Indus Water Commission. The Indian side was led by Mr DV Thareja. Syed Jamat Ali
Shah represented Pakistan.
Shah has said that "a request has been made to stop the ongoing construction, pending
resolution of the issue". Asked what would Pakistan do if the demand was not met, he
said, "If the (Indus Water) commissioners are not able to resolve the issue, the 1960
Indus Water Treaty provides for going to court for arbitration".
Pakistan also raised objections over Kishenganga power project, claiming it would lead
to diversion of water from Jhelum into Wullar lake affecting the flow into Pakistan. Shah
said that Pakistan also objected to the flood Bund rpt Bund being constructed by India
along the Ravi river. "Pakistan also enquired about the latest status of construction of
Baglihar Hydro Electric Project. India said it will collect information and share it with
Pakistan," Shah said.
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