Mahanadi Water Dispute: Centre Holds Talks with Odisha, Chhattisgarh CMs
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil chaired a meeting with the Chief Ministers of Chhattisgarh and Odisha to facilitate an amicable settlement of the Mahanadi Water Dispute. The meeting emphasized dialogue, technical cooperation, and cooperative federalism to resolve the long-standing inter-state river water conflict.
Background
The Mahanadi water dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh has been ongoing for decades, with Odisha alleging that Chhattisgarh's construction of barrages and dams upstream reduces water flow downstream, affecting irrigation, drinking water, and ecology. The dispute has been adjudicated by the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal (MWDT) constituted in 2018 under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956.
Key facts
Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil chaired a meeting with Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai and Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi.
The meeting aimed at facilitating an amicable settlement of the Mahanadi Water Dispute.
Emphasis was placed on dialogue, technical cooperation, and mutual trust.
The dispute involves allegations by Odisha that Chhattisgarh's upstream projects reduce water flow to Odisha.
The Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal (MWDT) was constituted in 2018 to adjudicate the dispute.
The tribunal is established under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956.
The meeting reflects the Centre's push for cooperative federalism in resolving inter-state water conflicts.
Prelims pointers
- Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal (MWDT)
- Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956
- Article 262 of the Constitution (Adjudication of disputes relating to inter-state rivers)
- Jal Shakti Ministry
- Cooperative federalism
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of the Centre in resolving inter-state water disputes through dialogue and tribunals.
- Critically examine the effectiveness of the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 in addressing water conflicts.
- Analyze the concept of cooperative federalism in the context of water resource management in India.