THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
The Mahanadi Water
Disputes Tribunal has deferred its hearing on the long-standing water-sharing
dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh to September 28, as technical teams of
the two states continue consultations under the supervision of the Central
Water Commission (CWC).
The tribunal was
expected to review the progress made by the expanded technical committee,
including the CWC, which is examining water availability and utilisation data
submitted by both states.
Advocate General
Pitambar Acharya confirmed the deferment, adding that the issue should be
resolved through mutual understanding and brotherhood rather than prolonged
litigation. He noted that water disputes have rarely found lasting solutions
through court proceedings, emphasising that an amicable settlement would serve
both states better.
Technical teams from
Odisha and Chhattisgarh have already held two meetings under the CWC Chairman’s
supervision, with the next session scheduled for September 21.
The CWC is expected
to develop a framework for equitable water sharing, considering the interests
and water security of both states.
Acharya reiterated that the Odisha government remains committed to protecting the state’s interests while pursuing a cooperative resolution.
The Mahanadi dispute has remained a contentious issue between the neighbouring states, with both sides maintaining their respective positions on the sharing and utilisation of the river’s waters. The ongoing technical consultations are aimed at examining the available data and exploring a mutually acceptable framework for resolving the dispute.
