Mahanadi Tribunal to Visit Odisha for Key Inspections Feb 26 – Mar 2, 2026

The Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal, led by Chairperson Justice Bela M. Trivedi, will undertake a four‑day visit to Odisha from February 26 to March 2, 2026.

The 10‑member delegation, including Justices Dr Ravi Ranjan and Indermeet Kaur Kochhar, will conduct on‑ground inspections as part of the ongoing dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh over Mahanadi river water sharing.

The itinerary begins with the team’s arrival in Jharsuguda on February 26, followed by visits to Hirakud Dam, Burla Power House, Chipilima Power House, and Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary on February 27.

The delegation will then travel to Bhubaneswar, with scheduled visits to Samaleswari Temple, Lingaraj Temple, Jagannath Temple in Puri, and Konark Sun Temple.

On March 2, the Tribunal will inspect Chilika Lake and its estuary before returning to New Delhi.

Odisha has accorded state guest status to the Tribunal members.

District collectors of Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Khordha, and Puri have been tasked with arrangements, while the Water Resources Department will appoint a coordinating officer.

Security will be ensured by the police.

The visit comes at a politically sensitive time, with opposition parties accusing the government of delaying resolution of the Mahanadi dispute.

The ruling administration maintains its commitment to an amicable settlement. Observers believe the Tribunal’s inspection could significantly influence the course of proceedings.