Afghanistan to Build Dam on Kunar River To Restrict Water to Pakistan
The Taliban-led government in Afghanistan has announced plans to construct a dam on the Kunar River, a major tributary that flows into Pakistan, in a move that could restrict water supply to its eastern neighbour. The declaration comes after India suspended its participation in the Indus Waters Treaty earlier this year, further heightening regional tensions over shared water resources.
Directive From Taliban Leadership
Afghanistan’s Information Ministry said Supreme Leader Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada has directed officials to speed up dam construction. Authorities framed the decision as an exercise of Afghanistan’s sovereign rights over upstream waters, with no obligation to guarantee downstream flow into Pakistan.
Growing Regional Concerns
The project raises concerns for Pakistan, which depends heavily on water from both Indian and Afghan rivers for irrigation and hydropower. Experts warn that the Kunar dam plan, combined with India’s pause on the Indus Waters Treaty, could intensify water insecurity in Pakistan and fuel diplomatic strains.
No Timeline Yet for Construction
Afghanistan has not disclosed a construction schedule or funding details for the proposed dam. However, the announcement highlights a broader trend in South Asia of upstream nations leveraging control over water resources as a strategic tool, potentially complicating already fragile regional relations.
