In a significant development, Odisha and Chhattisgarh have initiated constructive dialogue to address the long-standing Mahanadi water dispute, signalling a commitment to cooperation and mutual benefit.
A high-level meeting, attended by the Chief Secretaries and senior Water Resources officials of both states, was held to discuss the contentious issue of water sharing in the Mahanadi river basin.
The states agreed to work sincerely and amicably toward a resolution through sustained dialogue. To facilitate this, Technical Committees, led by the Engineers-in-Chief (EICs) of Odisha and Chhattisgarh, will convene weekly meetings throughout September to identify critical issues and propose solutions. These committees will also explore the establishment of an institutional framework to ensure stronger coordination on Mahanadi water sharing in the future.
Furthering the momentum, a follow-up meeting at the Chief Secretary level, involving Water Resources Secretaries from both states, is scheduled for October to review progress and advance discussions.
In a move to elevate the dialogue, the Chief Ministers of Odisha and Chhattisgarh are expected to meet by December, at a mutually convenient time, to assess progress and work toward a long-term, amicable resolution that prioritises the interests of people in both states.
The Mahanadi water dispute, centred on the allocation and management of the river’s water resources, has been a point of contention between the two states for years, impacting agriculture, livelihoods, and regional harmony.
This renewed commitment to dialogue and cooperation marks a promising step toward resolving the issue and fostering sustainable water management in the region.
