Set up tribunal to resolve Mahanadi dispute: BJD in LS

New Delhi: Odisha has once again reiterated its demand for setting up a tribunal for resolving the ongoing water dispute with neighbouring Chhattisgarh.

Raising the issue during the Zero Hour in Lok Sabha on Thursday, leader of BJD’s Parliamentary party Bhartruhari Mahatab accused the Centre of intentionally delaying the formation of the tribunal.

“In 2016-17, we have witnessed that there been a loss of 80 percent water flow in Mahanadi during the non-monsoon period. Hence, Tribunal should be set up as a delay is allowing Chhattisgarh to go ahead with the construction of its barrages,” said Bhartruhari.

Mahtab also asked the Centre to direct the Chhattisgarh government to stop construction of barrages on the upper catchment of Mahanadi, saying they are seriously affecting flow of the river.

Also Read: Satyagraha on Mahanadi water dispute begins in New Delhi