Mahanadi Row: Tripartite Talks fail to yield Results

The tripartite talks held between Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Centre on the issue of construction of barrages on Mahanadi River in Chhattisgarh, failed to yield any results, as both states stuck to their stand. Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik asked Chhattisgarh CM Dr. Raman Singh to stop construction till a solution is found, but it was rejected.

“We presented our case strongly. The construction of barrages on Mahanadi will affect ecology in Bhitar Kanika, Satkosia and Chilika in the state. We requested the Chhattisgarh Govt to stop construction for some time, but they did not accept our proposal. The barrages will affect 65% people in Odisha for whom Mahanadi is the lifeline,” he said adding further that Odisha Cabinet will meet tomorrow to discuss the issue. Apart from the CM, Ministers Debi Prasad Mishra and Pushpendra Singhdeo also attended the meeting.

Meanwhile, Union Water Resources Minister Uma Bharti sought to play the role of trouble shooter, saying interest of all parties will be taken care of. A committee will be formed within a week to discuss all aspects and review the presentations made by both states on the merits and demerits of the barrages. Both states agreed to form a Committee (including Environmentalists) to discuss the environmental issues. However, Odisha’s demand for the formation of an Expert Panel has been rejected.

“Chhattisgarh Government will never act against the interest of people of Odisha. Odisha Govt will also never do this. And, as long Modi remains PM and Uma Water Resources Minister, we will ensure that interests of neither Odisha nor Chhattisgarh, are harmed”, said Uma.

Meanwhile, Dr. Raman Singh has tried to play down the conflict, calling it just a small matter. “Total capacity released from Chhattisgarh has ability to fill Hirakud Dam 5 times, don’t understand the reason for controversy. Chaattisgarh using only 15% of Mahanadi Water. 57% of water going to Sea. Odisha has failed to utilise the available water,” he said.