Why Odisha vs Chhattisgarh over Mahanadi row is back in spotlight

The Mahanadi water dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh is once again a topic of discussion, with Odisha's government suggesting that the two BJP-ruled states are nearing an "amicable resolution," despite the Opposition BJD claiming this move is merely "an eyewash." During a meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi stated that a resolution framework would be released "very soon."

He emphasized that the resolution would consider the interests of both states and serve as a model for other states' dispute resolution mechanisms.

The BJP, which previously supported an amicable settlement while in opposition, has intensified efforts to resolve the dispute since coming into power in Odisha in June 2024. In July 2025, the first round of talks between state officials began, focusing on technical aspects of the conflict. The states agreed to share data on water requirements with the Central Water Commission, with the aim of reaching a resolution within three months. However, two months have passed since then, with satisfactory progress reported.

The Mahanadi River holds immense significance for Odisha, serving as the lifeline for irrigation, drinking water, flood management, hydropower generation, and the state's overall negotiation with Chhattisgarh and the center. Odisha's Chief Minister stressed the importance of a fair share of the river's water for irrigation, flood control, hydropower, drinking water, and environmental concerns.

The dispute, which began in 2016 over Chhattisgarh's construction of barrages and other structures on the Mahanadi and its tributaries, has been under the jurisdiction of the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal since 2018.