Drying Mahanadi River Prompts Water Disputes Tribunal’s Field Inspection in Odisha

Jharsuguda: The Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal has commenced a 10-day field inspection in Odisha’s Jharsuguda district to address the ongoing water-sharing conflict between Odisha and Chhattisgarh.

The inspection is primarily focused on the drying of the Mahanadi River, which poses significant challenges. The tribunal, headed by Justice AM Khanwilkar, aims to gather essential data and information during this field inspection.

The team will visit approximately 30 locations, including key sites like the Hirakud Dam and the Mahanadi Delta system. These visits will provide valuable insights into the current condition of the river and the impact on water-sharing between the two states.

The primary objective of the inspection is to gather accurate and up-to-date information that will enable the tribunal to make informed decisions. By assessing the dam’s condition, water flow in the river, and the overall situation in the catchment area, the tribunal seeks to understand the complexities of the water dispute.

The field inspection is a crucial step towards resolving the conflict and addressing the challenges faced by the drying Mahanadi River. It is expected to play a significant role in facilitating a fair and equitable water-sharing agreement between Odisha and Chhattisgarh.

The collaborative efforts of the tribunal, along with officials, technical teams, and legal experts from both states, demonstrate a commitment to finding a sustainable solution to the Mahanadi water-sharing dispute.