The controversy regarding the film Sutlej did not stop.
Diljit Dosanjh starrer film Satluj, based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, is in the news these days. This film remained pending in the censor board for many years. The producers brought it on OTT but due to controversy, it was removed from here again. Meanwhile, the word Sutlej is in discussion which is a river.
Sutlej River is one of the important rivers of India and Pakistan. It is considered to be the longest tributary of the Indus river system. For thousands of years this river has been the basis of civilizations, agriculture, trade and culture. Originating from the high peaks of the Himalayas, this river passes through many states and countries and finally joins the Indus River. Its water has shaped the lives of millions of people. Even today this river is a major source of water, electricity and irrigation.
The river became the boundary line
In the year 1809, this river also became the boundary line of the British sphere of influence and the Sikh Empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Sutlej river also became an important geographical basis in determining the boundaries at the time of partition of India and Pakistan. Because of this a large number of people had to migrate. After partition, this river became the basis of the new geographical identity of the Punjab provinces of India and Pakistan. The Indus Water Agreement between India and Pakistan was also signed due to political reasons, which was later announced to be canceled by the Indian Government.
What are the major controversies related to Sutlej River?
- Indus Water Treaty: In the year 1960, Indus Water Treaty was signed between India and Pakistan. According to this agreement brokered by the World Bank, the water of Sutlej, Ravi and Beas rivers was earmarked for India’s use. Whereas most of the water of Indus, Jhelum and Chenab went to Pakistan’s share. However, there has been political debate between the two countries regarding this treaty from time to time. After the brutal murder of 26 tourists in Pahalgam last year, the Central Government had announced the cancellation of the Indus Water Treaty, after which Pakistan had given a sharp reaction.
- Water sharing dispute: Many controversies have arisen within India regarding the water of Sutlej. There have been long standing differences over water sharing between Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. Although the issue of Ravi and Beas has been more prominent in these disputes, Sutlej also remains in the news as it is a part of the broader water management system.
- Concern is also related to China: Since the origin of Sutlej is in Tibet, concerns are raised from time to time about the projects being built in the upper reaches by China. India constantly monitors the water flow of this river.
How did Sutlej river get its name, where did it originate from?
In ancient texts, Sutlej is mentioned by the name Shatadru or Shutudri. Description of this river is also found in Rigveda. It is believed that Shatadru means river with a hundred streams. With time its name changed to Satluj.
The origin of Sutlej river is believed to be near Rakshas Tal located in Tibet. This area is near Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. The point of origin is situated at an altitude of about 4,500 meters above sea level. The initial part of the river is known as Longchen Khambab in Tibet. Flowing from here it enters India. Originating from Tibet, it enters India near Shipki La Pass located in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. From here the river passes through steeply sloping hilly areas. Many small rivers join it on the way and its water flow increases.
The total length of Sutlej river is considered to be approximately 1,450 kilometers.
Through which areas does the Sutlej river pass?
The journey of Sutlej river is completed in several stages. From its origin in Tibet, it reaches the Punjab province of Pakistan via Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, the area near the India-Pakistan border. After reaching there the flow of the river becomes relatively calm. Here its water is used for irrigation on a large scale.
After all, where does Sutlej meet?
Sutlej River meets Chenab River after entering Pakistan. After this the combined water stream forms Panjnad. Panjnad later joins the Indus river. Finally, the Indus River flows through Pakistan and falls into the Arabian Sea. In this way the last water of Sutlej also reaches the Arabian Sea.
What is the total length of Sutlej river?
The total length of Sutlej river is considered to be approximately 1,450 kilometers. Of this, about 320 kilometers flows in India, while the remaining part is located in Tibet and Pakistan. Many small and big rivers meet in Sutlej river. Among these, Spiti River, Baspa River, Soan, Nogli Khad and Swan River are prominent. These tributaries strengthen the water level and flow of Sutlej.
Historical importance of Satluj
The history of Sutlej is thousands of years old. This river has been part of the sphere of influence of the Indus Valley Civilization. In ancient times, trade routes developed along its banks. Many small and big cities were established around this river. Sutlej had special importance even in the Vedic period. Sages and sages have mentioned it in religious and cultural texts. In the medieval period, this river remained an important medium of trade and transportation. During the British rule, Sutlej water was used in the construction of canals. This led to a huge expansion of farming in Punjab.
Why is it important for agriculture?
Sutlej is considered the lifeline of the farms of Punjab and Haryana. Its water reaches millions of hectares of agricultural land through the Bhakra Nangal Project and several canal systems. Wheat, paddy, sugarcane and many other crops are irrigated with the water of this river. If Sutlej water is not available then the agriculture of North India can be greatly affected.
How much contribution in electricity production?
Sutlej river is also a major source of hydroelectric power generation. Many big dams and power projects have been built on this river. Among these, Bhakra Dam, Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Project, Kol Dam Project and Baspa Hydroelectric Project are prominent. Many states of North India get electricity from these projects. Bhakra Nangal Dam is one of the most famous multipurpose projects of India. It is situated near the border of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. There are three major benefits from this dam. Irrigation, power generation and flood control. This is considered a major achievement in the initial development work of independent India.
Challenges related to environment are also no less
Sutlej river is facing many environmental problems. Among these, industrial pollution, domestic dirty water, plastic waste, illegal mining, climate change, melting of glaciers etc. are prominent. Experts believe that if conservation is not done in time, the river flow and water quality may be affected in future.
Satluj plays an important role in tourism
There are many beautiful tourist places on the banks of Sutlej river. Kinnaur’s valleys, hill villages, apple orchards, Bhakra Dam and Himalayan views attract a large number of tourists every year. This area is also famous for adventure tourism, trekking and photography.
Also read: What is the 40 year old relationship of Karnataka village with Khamenei?
