CWC to meet on Mahanadi projects in Chhattisgarh.

The Central Water Commission (CWC) is likely to convene a meeting by July-end following strong objection raised by Odisha against construction activities by Chhattisgarh Government over Mahanadi river system.

Seven projects including Arpa-Bhainsjhar have been taken up by the Chhattisgarh on Arpa river without intimating Odisha. Besides, an intake well for drawing water from Saberi river originating in Koraput has been constructed.

No inter-State agreement has so far been signed between Odisha and Chhattisgarh for utilisation of water of Mahanadi river. It is apprehended that the flow to Hirakud dam reservoir will be reduced drastically for Chhattisgarh projects.

The Odisha Government has demanded a tripartite discussion among CWC, Chhattisgarh and Odisha to finalise sharing pattern for Mahanadi water. Official sources said Odisha will demand signing of an agreement between the two States for the Mahanadi basin.

Meanwhile, Odisha Government in a letter to the Centre has objected to non-sharing of the detailed project report of Polavaram project by Andhra Pradesh Government submitted to the CWC.

THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS