Renewed Dialogue Over Mahanadi River Sparks Optimism

Fresh Willingness to Resolve Dispute

Renewed Dialogue Over Mahanadi River Sparks Optimism: In a major shift from court-centric proceedings, Odisha and Chhattisgarh have expressed readiness to resolve the Mahanadi water-sharing dispute through mutual discussions. The Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal has granted extra time for dialogue and fixed September 6, 2025, as the date for the next hearing, rekindling hopes of a negotiated settlement.

Timeline of the Disagreement

The issue dates back nearly a decade when Odisha raised concerns over Chhattisgarh’s construction of barrages and dams in the river’s upper basin. These structures reportedly reduced the volume of water reaching Odisha, particularly during dry seasons, severely impacting agricultural output and rural livelihoods.

Static GK fact: Most inter-state river conflicts in India are governed by the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956, enacted to ensure equitable water distribution among states.

Legal Path and Tribunal Proceedings

Odisha filed a petition with the Supreme Court in 2016, demanding the creation of a tribunal. This led to the formation of the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal by the central government in 2018. Despite several hearings, delays in data submission and witness examination stalled the process. By 2024, only one witness had been officially examined.

Geographical Importance of the Mahanadi

The Mahanadi River is a major watercourse in eastern India, known for its extensive floodplains and high silt content. Its name translates to “Great River” from Sanskrit.

Static GK fact: The river spans a total length of approximately 900 kilometers, originating in Chhattisgarh and draining into the Bay of Bengal.

Basin Spread and Tributaries

• Source: Near Pharsiya village, Nagri Sihawa Hills, Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh
• Mouth: Bay of Bengal near Paradip, Odisha
• Total Basin Area: Around 1.4 lakh sq. km
• Left-bank tributaries: Seonath, Hasdeo, Mand, Ib
• Right-bank tributaries: Ong, Tel, Jonk

The river basin primarily lies in Chhattisgarh and Odisha, with marginal coverage in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh.

Static GK fact: The Hirakud Dam, constructed across the Mahanadi in Odisha, is one of the world’s longest earthen dams.

River’s Role in Regional Development

The Mahanadi sustains large stretches of agricultural land, mainly rice cultivation, and serves as a lifeline for drinking water, industry, and fishing communities. Altered water flows due to upstream dams have created environmental stress and impacted economic activities in Odisha’s delta region.

Flood Control and Water Management

Historically prone to flooding, the Mahanadi has seen several flood management projects. While the Hirakud Dam was a breakthrough for flood control and irrigation, new upstream constructions have caused disputes over flow regulation and ecological balance.

Static GK Tip: The Mahanadi delta ranks among India’s most fertile lands, thanks to nutrient-rich alluvial deposits.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Renewed Dialogue Over Mahanadi River Sparks Optimism: