Mahanadi dispute between Odisha, Chhattisgarh; Tribunal hearing deferred amid reconciliation efforts

The hearing on the Mahanadi water dispute in the Tribunal has been postponed to September 6, as both the Odisha and Chhattisgarh governments explore a possible mutual resolution.

According to the Advocate General of Odisha, Pitambar Acharya, the Tribunal was informed that both state governments have agreed to initiate discussions at the level of Chief Secretaries and political leadership to reach an amicable settlement.

“After the July 17 hearing, we have informed the Tribunal about constructive steps being taken by the Odisha government to resolve the dispute amicably. We have furnished all the details, including the Chhattisgarh CM’s letter, before the tribunal. The tribunal praised the efforts and scheduled the hearing for September,” Acharya said.

This development follows an informal exchange of letters between Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai regarding the long-pending issue.

The Odisha government officially conveyed to the Tribunal that positive steps are being taken towards reconciliation, and a formal round of talks is expected soon. It is to be noted that on July 25, CM Majhi had written to his Chhattisgarh counterpart proposing a bilateral discussion, to which a favorable response has now been received.

“I am in receipt of your D.O. Letter No. 405/CM/2025, dated 25th of July 2025, regarding the proposal for an amicable settlement of the Mahanadi water disputes between our states, and the same is under consideration,” the Chhattisgarh CM’s letter read.