Mahanadi Tribunal Team Begins Key Inspection in Odisha

Sambalpur, Feb 27: A 10-member delegation of the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal, led by Justice Bela M. Trivedi, has commenced a crucial inspection in Odisha to assess the long-standing water-sharing dispute with Chhattisgarh.

The team visited the Hirakud Dam complex, including its spillway, powerhouse, and command areas, before moving to the Chipilima Power House.

Their focus is on evaluating non-monsoon inflows, irrigation demands, industrial and drinking water usage, and the proposed Mahanadi–Brahmani river interlinking project.

Odisha Advocate General Pitambar Acharya reiterated that judicial intervention alone cannot resolve inter-state disputes, stressing the need for mutual settlement.

He also confirmed Odisha’s opposition to new barrages in the lower reaches of the river while the case remains pending.

The tribunal will also revisit disputed canal sites in Sambalpur and barrages in Chhattisgarh, including Kalma, Saradihi, Basantpur, and Arpa-Bhaisajhar, which triggered the conflict.

With BJP governments in both states, there is cautious optimism for an amicable resolution outside the courtroom.

The inspection, coordinated by Odisha’s Water Resources Department, will continue until March 2, with cultural visits planned to Maa Samaleswari Temple and Shree Jagannath Temple.