Bhubaneswar, Sept. 21 (UDN): Fresh momentum has emerged in efforts to resolve the long-standing Mahanadi water-sharing dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh, with renewed emphasis on dialogue, technical consultations and cooperation between the two neighbouring states.
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The development follows recent meetings involving Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Odisha leaders, as well as ongoing discussions facilitated by the Central Water Commission (CWC).
Harichandan Highlights Dialogue
Former Chhattisgarh Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan recently met Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, during which the Mahanadi dispute reportedly figured prominently.
According to Harichandan, he stressed the importance of resolving the issue through negotiations and mutual understanding. He also said Sai assured him that the dispute would be resolved.
The latest development comes against the backdrop of renewed efforts by both states to pursue a negotiated settlement rather than rely solely on prolonged legal proceedings.
CWC-Facilitated Talks Gain Momentum
The Centre has been facilitating discussions between Odisha and Chhattisgarh. At a July 30 meeting chaired by Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil, both states agreed to continue technical consultations aimed at finding an amicable settlement.
An expanded technical committee headed by the CWC chairman has also been constituted to address outstanding technical issues relating to the Mahanadi basin. Its first meeting was held on July 29.
Both States Signal Willingness to Continue Talks
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has recently said that the dispute is expected to be resolved soon. He has also stated that both states have agreed to accept a CWC decision taken in the interest of Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
Sai also met Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi during his recent visit to Odisha, with the two leaders discussing cooperation and issues concerning the neighbouring states.
Tribunal Proceedings Continue
The dialogue process is unfolding alongside proceedings before the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal.
The tribunal recently deferred its hearing to September 28 as the two states continued discussions through their technical teams under the CWC. Odisha’s Advocate General has indicated that the state is participating in the consultations while safeguarding its interests.
Long-Standing Water-Sharing Issue
The dispute concerns the sharing and utilisation of Mahanadi river waters between Odisha and Chhattisgarh. Following Odisha’s request, the Centre constituted the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal in March 2018 under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956.
With technical consultations continuing and both states expressing support for dialogue, attention is now focused on whether the ongoing negotiations can produce a mutually acceptable framework for managing and sharing the Mahanadi’s waters.