Water war between Punjab and Haryana escalates

A renewed dispute over water sharing between Punjab and Haryana has escalated into a significant political confrontation.

- TARUNI GANDHI & NEERAJ MOHAN

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has declared that his government will not release more water than it already does.

"Water is Punjab's lifeline. We will not give even a drop extra. The distribution must be scientific and just. Haryana's demand seems politically motivated. This is not merely a water dispute; it is about protecting our rightful share," Mann said.

The Punjab government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has curtailed the supply of water from the Bhakra canal to Haryana, reducing it from the usual 8,500 cusecs to just 4,000 cusecs. This move has triggered a fierce dispute, with Haryana facing severe water shortages in multiple districts.

Punjab justified its decision by stating that Haryana has already used 103% of its allocated water while Punjab has received only 89% of its share. It argued that the canal's capacity is just 10,000 cusecs, and providing 8,500 cusecs to Haryana is not practically feasible. The state also cited low water levels in its dams and the upcoming paddy sowing season for curtailment.