Key Facts about Jhelum River

Introduction to the Jhelum River

• Origin: The Jhelum River originates from Verinag Spring at the base of the Pir Panjal Range in Jammu and Kashmir, India.

• Length: It flows for approximately 725 kilometers before merging with the Chenab River in Pakistan.

• Catchment Area: The river drains a basin area of around 55,213 square kilometers.

• Name Origin: The Jhelum was historically known as Vitasta in Sanskrit and is mentioned in ancient texts like the Rigveda and Nilmata Purana.

Course of the River

1. Upper Course:

   • Begins at Verinag and flows through the Kashmir Valley.

   • Passes through significant towns such as Anantnag and Srinagar.

   • Enters Wular Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, playing a critical role in flood control.

2. Middle Course:

   • Descends from the Kashmir Valley into the Jhelum Gorge.

   • Flows through Baramulla and Uri before crossing into Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

3. Lower Course:

   • Enters Punjab province in Pakistan.

   • Merges with the Chenab River, contributing to the Indus River System.

Tributaries of the Jhelum River

• Left-Bank Tributaries:

  • Lidder River

  • Sind River

• Right-Bank Tributaries:

  • Pohru River

  • Kishanganga River (known as Neelum River in Pakistan)

Historical Significance

• Ancient Period:

  • Mentioned as Vitasta in Hindu mythology and considered sacred.

  • Associated with the legend of Kashyapa Rishi and the creation of the Kashmir Valley.

• Medieval Period:

  • Witnessed the rise and fall of several dynasties, including the Mughals and Dogras.

  • The Mughal Emperor Jahangir was particularly fond of the Jhelum’s scenic beauty.

• Colonial Period:

  • The river’s strategic importance was recognized during the British era, especially in relation to the Great Game in Central Asia.

Geopolitical Importance

• Forms part of the Indus Waters Treaty (1960), which governs water-sharing between India and Pakistan.

• The river’s waters are allocated to Pakistan under the treaty, though India retains rights for non-consumptive uses like hydroelectricity.

Economic and Ecological Importance

• Irrigation:

  • Supports agriculture in the Kashmir Valley and parts of Punjab in Pakistan.

• Hydropower:

  • Hosts several hydroelectric projects, including the Uri Hydroelectric Project and Kishanganga Hydroelectric Project.

• Tourism:

  • Scenic beauty around Srinagar and houseboat cruises on Dal Lake (fed by Jhelum) attract tourists.

• Flood Control:

  • Wular Lake acts as a natural flood reservoir, regulating the river’s flow.

Environmental Challenges

• Pollution:

  • Increasing urbanization and tourism in the Kashmir Valley have led to pollution in the river.

  • Untreated sewage and agricultural runoff are significant concerns.

• Deforestation:

  • Reduces the river’s ability to recharge during dry seasons and worsens sedimentation.

• Climate Change:

  • Impacts the river’s flow due to reduced snowmelt from the Himalayas.

Key Facts for UPSC Prelims

• Jhelum River’s Origin: Verinag Spring, Jammu and Kashmir.

• Significance: Tributary of the Indus River System.

• Major Lakes: Wular Lake, Dal Lake.

• Hydropower Projects: Uri and Kishanganga.

• Indus Waters Treaty: Allocates Jhelum’s waters to Pakistan.

Conclusion

The Jhelum River, with its historical and geographical significance, continues to influence the socio-economic and political landscape of South Asia. For UPSC aspirants, mastering the facts and issues related to the Jhelum can provide a strong foundation for tackling questions in prelims, mains, and interviews. Keep revising these key points to ensure clarity and confidence in your answers.

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