Mahanadi Dispute Resolution As Tribunal Pushes for Odisha-Chhattisgarh Dialogue

Bhubaneswar: In a significant development that could help break the deadlock over the long-pending Mahanadi water dispute, the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal on Thursday urged Odisha and Chhattisgarh to explore an amicable settlement through dialogue, signalling a preference for negotiated resolution over prolonged litigation.

During a crucial hearing in New Delhi, the tribunal advised both states to engage in meaningful discussions to resolve their differences over the sharing and management of the Mahanadi river waters. It observed that the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Ministry of Jal Shakti could play a constructive role in facilitating negotiations and building consensus between the two neighbouring states.

The tribunal's suggestion assumes significance as the dispute has remained unresolved for years despite multiple rounds of legal proceedings, with both Odisha and Chhattisgarh steadfastly defending their respective claims over the river's waters.

The tribunal has scheduled the next hearing in the matter for August 21, when it is expected to review the progress made by the two states and consider further proceedings.

Welcoming the tribunal's observations, Odisha Advocate General Pitambar Acharya said the latest development has rekindled hopes of an out-of-court settlement.

“There is renewed optimism that the issue can be resolved through dialogue and cooperation between the two states. If both sides engage constructively, it may pave the way for a mutually acceptable solution,” Acharya said after the hearing.

The Mahanadi dispute has been one of the most contentious inter-state river water conflicts in eastern India. Odisha has consistently raised concerns over the construction of barrages and other water infrastructure by Chhattisgarh in the upstream reaches of the river, arguing that such projects could adversely affect downstream water availability, particularly during the lean season. Chhattisgarh, on the other hand, has maintained that it is utilising its legitimate share of the river's waters within its territorial jurisdiction.

The Mahanadi is the lifeline of Odisha, supporting irrigation, drinking water supply, industrial activities and ecological systems across large parts of the state. Millions of people, particularly in the Mahanadi delta region, depend on the river for their livelihoods.

Against this backdrop, the tribunal's emphasis on dialogue has raised expectations that both states may finally move towards a collaborative framework for water sharing and basin management. Any breakthrough through negotiations would not only help avoid prolonged legal uncertainty but also strengthen cooperative federalism in managing one of eastern India's most vital river systems.

With the next hearing slated for August 21, all eyes will now be on whether Odisha and Chhattisgarh seize the opportunity to translate the tribunal's advice into meaningful negotiations.