Punjab-Haryana Water Dispute
The Punjab and Haryana water-sharing dispute has intensified recently. The Punjab government restricted the flow of water from the Bhakra dam to Haryana, leading to a potential contempt notice from the Punjab and Haryana High Court. This conflict marks long-standing tensions over water resources in the region.
Bhakra-Nangal Project
- Asia’s 2nd tallest dam, after Tehri Dam
- India’s tallest straight gravity dam
- Lies on the border of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh
- Built across Sutlej River, near Bhakra village, Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh
- Forms the Gobind Sagar Reservoir
- Operated and maintained by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB)
Historical Background
- One of India’s first major river valley projects after Independence
- Originally proposed by Sir Chhotu Ram in 1944
- Approved by Indian government on January 8, 1945
- Construction began in 1948
- Supervised later by Sir Rai Bahadur
- Inaugurated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1963
- Project cost: Approx. ₹245.28 crore
Water Allocation and Disputes
Each year, the BBMB allocates water based on monsoon patterns. For the current year, Punjab received 5.512 million acre-feet (MAF) while Haryana was allocated 2.987 MAF. Disputes arise when states exceed their allocated shares. Punjab claims Haryana has already consumed 104% of its quota.
Recent Events
On May 9, the Punjab and Haryana High Court intervened after Punjab’s actions restricted water flow. A day prior, Punjab’s Cabinet minister led a protest at the BBMB guesthouse, preventing the BBMB chairperson from releasing water. This incident prompted the court to label the events as unbelievable and indicative of serious governance issues.
Court Rulings and Government Response
The High Court had previously restrained Punjab from interfering with the BBMB’s operations. It ruled that the Punjab government must comply with the BBMB’s decisions. The court indicated that failure to do so could lead to contempt proceedings against state officials.
Current Water Levels and Future Implications
Water levels in key reservoirs are notably lower than previous years. The Ranjit Sagar and Pong dams are below last year’s levels. This shortage raises concerns about water availability for both states during the upcoming dry months.
Punjab’s Stance on Water Sharing
Punjab asserts that Haryana is misusing its water allocation and urges judicious use of resources. The state has indicated that Haryana’s actual drinking water needs are lower than what is being requested. Punjab claims to be providing more water than necessary on humanitarian grounds.
The Role of the Central Government
The Union Home Secretary has attempted to mediate the dispute. His proposal included allowing Haryana to borrow water from Punjab, with a commitment to return it later. However, Punjab boycotted this meeting, citing procedural violations.
| Related | |
|---|---|
