Union Minister pledges equitable solution to long-standing Mahanadi water issues

Bhubaneswar, Sept 26: Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C.R. Patil, expressed optimism on Thursday about resolving the longstanding water-sharing dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh concerning the Mahanadi River. This river serves as a vital water source for both states and has been the subject of contention due to Odisha's concerns over the construction of industrial barrages by Chhattisgarh, which are said to diminish water flow during the dry season.

Odisha claims that Chhattisgarh is building dams and small weirs upstream without adequate consultation. During a media interaction at the 'Ek Ped, Maa Ke Naam' event in Bhubaneswar, Patil assured that efforts are underway to address the issue. He remarked, “The tribunal is actively working to resolve the matter swiftly. We are dedicated to achieving a just solution that serves the interests of both states.”

In addition to the water dispute, Patil emphasized the significance of tree planting and cleanliness initiatives, reflecting the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat mission. He noted that more than one million programs have been launched in rural areas to encourage environmental preservation and hygiene.