India has initiated work on a series of hydropower projects in the disputed Ladakh region, sparking serious concerns over violations of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and escalating regional tensions. Engineer Arshad H. Abbasi raised the alarm in a letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, highlighting that India is pursuing a master plan for 10-megawatt projects in areas like Achinathang, Sanjak, Parfi La, Batalik, and Khaltsi. These projects, he argues, exceed the permissible water usage limits under the IWT and could obstruct crucial water flows into Pakistan.

Abbasi contends that these developments are designed to support Indian military operations, particularly in the glacial Siachen region, while neglecting the needs of the local Ladakhi population. He also pointed to previous treaty violations, including the construction of the Nimo Bazgo and Chutak power plants.

Meanwhile, the journal The Diplomat warned that India's actions could provoke retaliatory steps by China, such as blocking the flow of the Brahmaputra River—a vital water source for India’s northeastern region.

Further escalating concerns, Reuters recently reported that India plans to significantly increase water extraction from rivers designated for Pakistan under the treaty, including doubling the Ranbir canal's capacity on the Chenab River. The canal upgrade and new dam projects could severely reduce water flow to Pakistan, which relies heavily on the Indus basin for agriculture and power.

Pakistan views any unilateral diversion of water as an "act of war" and is preparing to pursue legal action through international institutions. Experts warn that India's weaponization of water could prompt similar tactics from China, potentially destabilizing the broader region.