Tribunal Grants More Time for Odisha-Chhattisgarh Talks on Mahanadi Water Dispute

Bhubaneswar, Aug 2: In a significant development in the prolonged Mahanadi river water-sharing dispute, the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal has granted additional time to Odisha and Chhattisgarh to continue negotiations for an amicable settlement.

During a hearing held on Saturday, the Tribunal acknowledged recent correspondence and mutual statements from both states indicating a willingness to resolve the issue through dialogue rather than prolonged litigation. The move was seen as a positive step toward de-escalating tensions and finding a cooperative solution to the inter-state river dispute that has persisted for years.

The tribunal’s decision comes after both states signaled openness to negotiation, marking a shift from earlier standoffs and legal confrontations. Officials from Odisha and Chhattisgarh have reportedly exchanged communications expressing interest in reaching a consensus on water-sharing arrangements that are equitable and sustainable.

Sources said the tribunal has put the formal proceedings on temporary hold to allow time for these discussions, with a directive that both states submit a progress report at the next hearing.

The Mahanadi dispute, which centers around concerns of reduced water flow to Odisha due to upstream barrages and projects in Chhattisgarh, has been under the tribunal’s consideration since 2018 following Odisha’s petition.

The recent development has sparked cautious optimism among policy watchers and environmentalists, who hope the resolution will ensure long-term water security and ecological balance for both states.

State government officials have not yet issued a detailed statement, but sources confirm that high-level meetings are expected soon to chart the next steps for negotiation.