In a decisive move to address one of Odisha’s most pressing issues, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Shri Suresh Pujari announced that the state government will explore all avenues to resolve the long-standing Mahanadi river water dispute with Chhattisgarh. Pujari’s leadership and commitment mark a significant shift in the state’s approach to this critical matter.
Pujari emphasized the importance of dialogue as the primary step towards settling the dispute. “The issue between Odisha and Chhattisgarh over the Mahanadi river water has persisted for years. The previous government did not seriously pursue any option to resolve it. Discussion between the two states is the first option, and the state government will explore this method first,” he said.
Historical Context
The dispute officially began when the Odisha government lodged a complaint with the Ministry of Water Resources on November 19, 2016, under section 3 of the Inter-State River Water Disputes (ISRWD) Act, 1956. Odisha requested the Centre to constitute a tribunal under section 4(1) of the ISRWD Act for adjudication of water disputes.
Subsequently, the Centre formed a negotiation committee to settle the dispute. However, the committee’s report in May 2017 concluded that further meetings would not be fruitful due to a lack of participation from Odisha, leading to the conclusion that the dispute could not be resolved by negotiation alone.
Tribunal and Government Action
Following a Supreme Court directive in January 2018, the Centre constituted the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal. The tribunal completed its field visits to the two states in December last year.
Minister Pujari criticized the previous government for not submitting accurate facts and data before the tribunal. “The previous government did not seek the Centre’s assistance seriously. The Odisha government will now place all facts before the tribunal soon. We will pursue all options and resolve the issue as early as possible,” Pujari asserted.
Pujari’s Leadership
Under Suresh Pujari’s leadership, the Odisha government has adopted a proactive stance on resolving the dispute. His strategic approach and firm commitment underscore his growing stature within the Odisha BJP government. “The current administration is committed to finding a permanent solution. We are exploring all avenues, including discussions, to ensure the interests of Odisha are protected,” he stated.
Pujari’s decisive actions and clear vision for the state’s water resources reflect his significant influence and capability as a leader. His efforts to engage constructively with Chhattisgarh and the Centre demonstrate a commitment to achieving equitable and sustainable outcomes for Odisha.
Moving Forward
Pujari underscored the state government’s proactive stance on resolving the dispute. “The current administration is committed to finding a permanent solution. We are exploring all avenues, including discussions, to ensure the interests of Odisha are protected,” he said.
The minister’s statements reflect a determined approach by the Odisha government to address the Mahanadi dispute comprehensively, prioritizing dialogue while being prepared to utilize other mechanisms to achieve a resolution.
Conclusion
The Odisha government’s renewed focus on resolving the Mahanadi river water dispute through dialogue and other measures marks a significant step towards addressing this critical issue. With Minister Suresh Pujari at the helm, there is a concerted effort to present accurate data and engage constructively with Chhattisgarh and the Centre, aiming for a timely and equitable resolution.
As the government explores all possibilities, the people of Odisha can hope for a solution that ensures sustainable and fair use of the Mahanadi river water, benefiting both states and fostering better inter-state relations.
Under the leadership of Suresh Pujari, the Odisha BJP government is poised to make substantial progress in resolving this dispute, reflecting the minister’s capabilities and vision for a prosperous and united state.