Overview
The Chenab River, derived from Sanskrit roots meaning “moon” (Chandra) and “water” (aab), is a major river system in South Asia. Flowing through India and Pakistan, it serves as a critical tributary of the Indus River, supporting agriculture, ecosystems, and hydropower generation in the region.
Origin and Course
- Source : Born from the union of two glacial streams—the Chandra and Bhaga—at Tandi village in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul and Spiti district, the river is initially known as Chandrabhaga in its upper reaches.
- Upper Course : Cutting through the Himalayas, it traverses Jammu and Kashmir, flowing westward between the rugged ridges of the Siwalik Hills (south) and the Lesser Himalayas (north).
- Lower Course : Entering Pakistan near Sialkot, the river shifts southwest, descending into Punjab’s fertile plains. It merges with the Jhelum River near Trimmu before draining into the Sutlej River , which ultimately feeds the Indus.
Total Length : Approximately 974 kilometers (605 miles), making it the largest river in Himachal Pradesh by water volume.
Tributaries and Drainage
Key tributaries enriching the Chenab’s flow include:
- Miyar Nalla
- Sohal
- Thirot
- Bhut Nalla
- Marusudar
- Lidrari
These tributaries contribute to the river’s role in sustaining irrigation networks, such as the Bhakra Canal System , vital for agriculture in both countries.
International Significance
The Chenab’s waters are governed by the Indus Waters Treaty (1960) , brokered by the World Bank, which allocates usage rights between India and Pakistan. India manages the upper basin, while Pakistan utilizes the lower reaches. The river remains a focal point in regional water-sharing disputes.
Ecological and Economic Importance
- Hydropower Potential : Projects like the Salal Dam in Jammu and Kashmir harness its flow for energy.
- Agriculture : The river’s basin supports wheat, rice, and cotton cultivation in Punjab’s “breadbasket” regions.
- Biodiversity : Its ecosystems sustain fish species like mahseer and support riparian habitats along its course.
Conclusion
The Chenab River exemplifies the intricate balance between transboundary cooperation and resource management. As a lifeline for millions, its sustainable governance remains pivotal for the ecological and economic well-being of South Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which two rivers converge to form the Chenab?
Answer : The Chandra and Bhaga streams meet at Tandi in Himachal Pradesh to create the Chenab.
2. To which major river is the Chenab a tributary?
Answer : The Chenab flows into the Indus River, either directly or via its confluence with the Sutlej.
3. Where does the Chenab originate geographically?
Answer : It originates in the Himalayas at Tandi village, located in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.