Transboundary impact assessment of Indian dams: a case study of Chenab River Basin in perspective of Indus Water Treaty

Several transboundary rivers are being shared in South Asia by neighbouring states within a certain framework. A comparative analysis of the Indus Water Treaty has been carried out with other South Asian water treaties while suggesting measures to enhance mutual cooperation over shared rivers between India and Pakistan. With a specific focus on Chenab River, transboundary impact assessments of Indian dams have been carried out keeping in view the aspects of quantity, quality and temporal change in river course. A decreasing trend and significant fluctuation in river discharge was observed with an average decrease of 0.5 billion (10⁹) cubic metres per year in annual inflow. In terms of water quality, pH (7.90 to 8.06), nitrates and other parameters were found within permissible limits. Total coliform (34 to 280 no/100 ml) and faecal coliform (21 to 193 no/100 ml) values were higher than permissible limits in three streams, whereas Escherichia coli was found +ve in only the Jummu Tawi River. Water was found unsuitable for drinking while suitable for agriculture and aquatic life. Temporal analysis shows significant change in river course over a span of 40 years. As a result of impact assessment evolving threats and their remedial measures have been suggested.