Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has firmly opposed the proposal to divert surplus water from the Union Territory to other states, particularly Punjab. Speaking about the 113-kilometre canal project proposed to transfer water from Jammu, Abdullah made it clear that he does not support the idea of releasing water to Punjab when Jammu itself faces drought-like conditions. “Let us use the water to meet our own needs first. Why should we send it to Punjab? Under the Indus Waters Treaty, they already have access to sufficient water,” he said.
Abdullah also recalled that Punjab had not helped Jammu & Kashmir during previous water crises. “When we needed water, did they give us any? For years we suffered. Why should we now be expected to supply them?” he questioned, underlining his objection. His remarks came amid discussions over the diversion of water from the Ravi River, a portion of which currently flows into Pakistan.
The central government has proposed building a barrage at Pathankot to stop the outflow of this excess water to Pakistan. Although a 1979 agreement attempted to address the issue, it led to prolonged disputes between Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir until the matter was reportedly settled in 2018 with central intervention. Despite the resolution, Abdullah reiterated his concerns and clearly stated his position against releasing water to Punjab.