Odisha and Chhattisgarh move closer to resolving the Mahanadi water dispute with fresh talks, technical panels, and a joint roadmap
OdishaPlus Bureau
On Saturday, the chief secretaries of Chhattisgarh and Odisha convened to address their differences regarding the sharing of the Mahanadi river water, emphasizing the importance of collaboratively finding a solution that benefits the residents of both states, according to officials. Senior officials from Chhattisgarh and Odisha convened to seek a resolution to the Mahanadi water dispute.
The Mahanadi, a significant river in India that flows from Chhattisgarh through Odisha into the Bay of Bengal, has historically been a contentious issue between the two states. The purpose of the meeting was to address this enduring conflict through dialogue, with participation from the chief secretaries of both states and the secretaries of their respective water resource departments.
Both states recognized the complexity and longevity of the dispute but stressed the necessity of amicably resolving it for the welfare of their citizens, as stated by officials.
It was agreed that starting in September 2025, technical committees made up of engineers and experts from both states will convene weekly. These committees will focus on identifying critical issues, seeking solutions, and exploring methods to enhance coordination between the two states.
Another meeting is scheduled for October at the chief secretaries’ level, which will also include the water resource secretaries. If progress is made, the chief ministers of both states may meet by December to determine the next steps, according to officials. During the meeting, both states committed to approaching discussions with sincerity and an open mind, ensuring that any resolution achieved is mutually advantageous, they noted.
It is anticipated that if this initiative proves successful, it will not only benefit Odisha and Chhattisgarh but also serve as a precedent for the entire nation, demonstrating that even long-standing disputes can be amicably resolved through dialogue and cooperation, as per officials.