Naveen Patnaik, Dr. Rajendra Singh Discuss Odisha’s Stand on Mahanadi Water Dispute
Bhubaneswar: Environmentalist Dr Rajendra Singh, popularly known as the “Waterman of India,” met with BJD President and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik at Naveen Niwas to deliberate on the Mahanadi water sharing dispute.
During the meeting, Naveen Patnaik reaffirmed Odisha’s uncompromising stance on safeguarding its rightful share of the Mahanadi river water, declaring that “the fight will continue.”
The discussion centred on strategies to counter Chhattisgarh’s upstream projects and ensure Odisha’s interests are protected.
Former ministers Devi Prasad Mishra and Niranjan Pujari, along with Sudarshan Das, Convenor of Mahanadi Bachao Andolan, also attended the meeting.
Dr Singh highlighted the ecological and environmental dimensions of the dispute, stressing the importance of sustainable water management.
The BJD reiterated its criticism of the central government and ruling party in Odisha for failing to adequately defend the state’s water rights, positioning itself as the strongest voice in the ongoing battle over the Mahanadi.
