Will Odisha and Chhattisgarh Find Common Ground on Mahanadi Water Dispute on December 5?
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Synopsis
The upcoming meeting on December 5 between the Joint Technical Committee of Odisha and Chhattisgarh marks a crucial step in resolving the Mahanadi water dispute. With significant discussions already taking place between the Chief Ministers and the Central government, both states are hopeful for a fair outcome that recognizes Odisha's reliance on this vital resource.
Key Takeaways
- The Joint Technical Committee of Odisha and Chhattisgarh will meet on December 5.
- Efforts are ongoing to resolve the Mahanadi water dispute.
- Central government involvement indicates the issue's significance.
- Previous discussions have taken place between Chief Ministers and Chief Secretaries.
- The Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal is scheduled to hold a hearing on December 20.
Bhubaneswar, December 4 (NationPress) The Joint Technical Committee (JTC) representing the governments of Odisha and Chhattisgarh is scheduled to convene once more on December 5, as both states strive to achieve a peaceful resolution to the enduring Mahanadi water conflict.
During a session of the Odisha Assembly, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling conveyed that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has engaged in unofficial discussions with his Chhattisgarh counterpart, Vishnu Deo Sai, regarding this pressing issue.
Further discussions took place at the Eastern Zonal Council Conference, presided over by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, where both Chief Ministers deliberated on the matter.
Mahaling emphasized that the Central government is treating the issue with significant concern.
He elaborated that a meeting at the Chief Secretary (CS) level took place in Delhi on August 30, where detailed dialogues occurred between the Chief Secretaries of both states to address this long-standing issue.
The minister informed the House that since the CS-level meeting, six sessions of the JTC have been conducted, focusing on technical details, water-flow statistics, and other relevant factors.
Additionally, the Chief Secretaries reconvened on November 10 to further this dialogue. The Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal is also slated to conduct its next hearing on December 20, as confirmed by the Odisha government in the Assembly, noting that insights from the technical committee meetings will aid in the tribunal's proceedings.
In a written statement to the Odisha Assembly, the Chief Minister reassured that over the past 18 months, the state government has made diligent efforts—both judicial and through dialogue—to resolve the Mahanadi water-sharing conflict, emphasizing the river's vital importance to Odisha.
He expressed confidence that Odisha will soon obtain its rightful share of the water.
Point of View
The ongoing discussions between Odisha and Chhattisgarh regarding the Mahanadi water dispute highlight the importance of inter-state cooperation in resolving resource-sharing conflicts. The involvement of the Central government underscores the significance of this issue, which affects millions dependent on the river. It is crucial for both states to find a mutually agreeable solution that prioritizes sustainability and fairness.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mahanadi water dispute?
The Mahanadi water dispute revolves around the sharing of water resources from the Mahanadi River between Odisha and Chhattisgarh, which has led to disagreements over water allocation, usage, and management.
Why is the upcoming meeting on December 5 important?
The meeting is critical as it represents ongoing efforts by both states to resolve the long-standing conflict over water sharing, which is vital for the livelihoods of many residents.
What role does the Central government play in this dispute?
The Central government has taken an active interest in the dispute, facilitating discussions between the states and ensuring that the matter is addressed at the national level.
