Odisha Forms United Front on Mahanadi Water Dispute
Bhubaneswar, Dec 23: In a decisive step toward resolving the long‑standing Mahanadi water dispute, the Odisha government convened the inaugural meeting of its newly constituted Inter‑Ministerial Committee at Rajiv Bhawan today.
Chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, the session brought together ministers, MLAs, and senior bureaucrats in a rare display of cross‑party unity.
The committee reviewed the historical context of the dispute, the Hirakud Dam project, and ongoing proceedings before the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal.
Technical inputs were provided by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner Anu Garg, and engineers from the Department of Water Resources.
Odisha emphasised its position as the lower riparian state, highlighting the river’s critical role in irrigation, drinking water, and industry.
With upstream projects in Chhattisgarh at the heart of tensions, both states have recently expressed willingness to negotiate. The tribunal has granted time for dialogue, opening a window for an amicable settlement.
The committee resolved to strengthen Odisha’s stance in upcoming negotiations, with the next meeting scheduled for January 2026.
The formation of this high‑level panel underscores the state’s commitment to protecting its water rights while pursuing cooperative solutions.
