Will the Mahanadi Water Dispute Finally Reach a Resolution? Insights from Chhattisgarh's CM

Chhattisgarh CM Optimistic About Mahanadi Water Dispute Resolution

Bhubaneswar: On Sunday, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai of Chhattisgarh expressed confidence that the ongoing Mahanadi water dispute with Odisha is on the verge of resolution, thanks to the efforts of the central government.

During his two-day visit to Odisha, Sai made these comments upon his arrival at Biju Patnaik International Airport.

He stated, "The situation regarding the Mahanadi water distribution is no longer contentious. With the BJP in power in both Odisha and Chhattisgarh, along with an NDA government at the Centre, we expect a swift resolution."

Sai further mentioned that both states have agreed to abide by any decision made by the Central Water Commission concerning the Mahanadi issue.

Following his arrival, the Chhattisgarh CM proceeded directly to meet his Odisha counterpart, Mohan Charan Majhi.

This meeting is particularly important as it precedes the upcoming hearing of the Mahanadi Water Dispute Tribunal scheduled for September 28.

Additionally, technical teams from both states are set to convene on September 21 to discuss the distribution of Mahanadi water.

Previously, on July 30, the two chief ministers had met in New Delhi with Union Water Resources Minister C R Patil present.

After that meeting, Majhi expressed optimism that the dispute could be settled before Diwali.

The conflict over Mahanadi water has persisted for over ten years, with Odisha accusing Chhattisgarh of obstructing the river's natural flow through the construction of barrages and weirs for industrial use.

Chhattisgarh, however, contends that it only utilizes its allocated share of the river water and claims that Odisha has not fully utilized its available resources.

In response to the ongoing dispute, the central government established the Mahanadi Water Dispute Tribunal in 2018.