Odisha and Chhattisgarh Progress in Resolving Mahanadi Water Dispute

Quick Summary

• Odisha and Chhattisgarh have made progress in resolving teh Mahanadi river water dispute.
• Chief Secretaries and senior water resources officials from both states met and agreed to work collaboratively for a resolution through dialog.
• Weekly technical committee meetings, headed by Engineers-in-chief, are scheduled for September to address critical issues and build an institutional framework for improved coordination on water sharing.
• A review meeting involving Chief Secretaries is set for October, while a potential meeting of the Chief Ministers may occur by December.
• Both states informed the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal (MWDT) about exploring amicable solutions; MWDT’s next hearing is on September 6.
• Odisha CM recently proposed forming a joint committee under Union ministry of Jal Shakti overseen by the Central Water Commission (CWC).
• The Mahanadi river originates in Chhattisgarh, flows 851 km with 494 km within Odisha, supporting ecosystems and human settlements throughout its course.
• Odisha attributes reduced water inflow to upstream constructions in Chhattisgarh like irrigation projects, barrages (30+), and over 500 anicuts built primarily for industrial purposes.

Indian opinion Analysis

The ongoing progress in resolving the Mahanadi river dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh is promising. Collaborative measures such as weekly technical meetings provide hope for creating enduring solutions that will benefit both states. The emphasis on dialogue over litigation underscores maturity in inter-state relations. Given that no formal agreements exist regarding resource-sharing between these neighboring states, forging institutional frameworks could open avenues not just for amicable conflict resolution but also better long-term cooperation.

The dispute highlights broader issues surrounding inter-state water management where competing demands-irrigation versus industrial use-can strain relationships if not proactively addressed.This case serves as a reminder of India’s growing need to establish robust mechanisms at regional levels under central oversight like proposals involving CWC guidance. Prosperous resolution could set precedent not only within India’s borders but also be indicative of how such disputes might be approached elsewhere.Read more: File picture source