Bhubaneswar: Prospects for a settlement of the long-standing dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh over river water appeared to have brightened after a crucial hearing in the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal in New Delhi on Thursday.
During the hearing, the tribunal reportedly advised both states to explore the possibility of resolving the issue through mutual discussions instead of continuing with prolonged legal proceedings.
The tribunal was of the view that the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Ministry of Jal Shakti could play a key role in facilitating dialogue and mediation between Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
The Tribunal’s move marks a turning point in the decades-old dispute over the sharing of Mahanadi River waters, which has often led to political and administrative friction between the two states.
The tribunal has fixed the next hearing of the case for August 21 for further proceedings.
On the outcome of the hearing, Odisha’s Advocate General Pitambar Acharya expressed optimism that the latest developments could pave the way for a solution. He said there are renewed hopes of resolving the dispute through discussions and cooperation between the two states.
The Mahanadi River holds immense importance for Odisha, with its water resources supporting agriculture, industries, and the livelihoods of millions of people.