The Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal is likely to deliver its judgment soon on the water-sharing formula between Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The two States have failed to place a concrete proposal for mutual settlement despite repeated opportunities. The tribunal has given them a final chance to arrive at a formula by 2 May, the next date of hearing.
Tribunal’s Latest Observations
The three-member tribunal, headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Bela M. Trivedi, noted that both States had earlier said the annual water availability would be finalised by the next hearing. However, their Advocates General again sought more time. The tribunal also said that no concrete suggestions were placed on record to recast the issues and narrow the disputes between the party States.
Warning to Odisha and Chhattisgarh
The tribunal expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of proceedings. It made clear that if the States fail to finalise a settlement or place any consensus on record by the next date, the case will proceed on merits. This indicates that the tribunal may move towards a final adjudication if negotiations do not succeed.
Background of the Mahanadi Dispute
The 851-km Mahanadi river originates in the Amarkantak hills in Chhattisgarh and flows for 494 km in Odisha before joining the Bay of Bengal. After Chhattisgarh became a separate State, it expanded irrigation and industrial water use through major, medium and minor projects, including barrages and anicuts. Odisha alleged that upstream constructions reduced water flow into its territory. It has claimed that Chhattisgarh built more than 500 anicuts and 30 barrages, many for industrial use.
Legal and Political Context
Odisha first moved the Supreme Court in 2018 over river-water sharing. The tribunal was later formed to adjudicate the dispute. After the 2024 Assembly elections, governments in both States said they would try to settle the matter amicably, but little progress has been made so far.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026