The Tulbul Navigation Project, also known as the Wular Barrage, has been a contentious issue between India and Pakistan for decades. Initiated in the 1980s, the project aimed to regulate water flow from Wular Lake into the Jhelum River, facilitating year-round navigation and improving flood control in Jammu and Kashmir. However, Pakistan contended that the project violated the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), leading to its suspension in 1988 .
The recent suspension of the IWT by India, following the Pahalgam terror attack, has reignited discussions about the project's revival. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has proposed resuming the Tulbul project, arguing that with the treaty now in abeyance, India has the opportunity to proceed without violating the agreement . This proposal has sparked a political debate, with former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti criticizing the move as "weaponizing water" and potentially exacerbating tensions with Pakistan
The project's revival could have significant implications for regional infrastructure and water management. The foundation for the barrage is already in place, and completing the structure could help regulate water levels in Wular Lake, enhance navigation on the Jhelum River, and improve flood control measures . However, the ongoing political sensitivities and the complex legal framework of the IWT continue to pose challenges to its implementation.
In summary, the Tulbul Navigation Project remains a symbol of the intricate balance between development aspirations and international agreements. Its future hinges on diplomatic negotiations, legal interpretations, and the evolving geopolitical landscape of the region.