Concerns rise in Kendrapara as Mahanadi dispute lingers

Residents of Kendrapara district have expressed growing concern over the unresolved Mahanadi river water dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh, fearing its adverse impact on agriculture and drinking water supply in the region.

- POST NEWS NETWORK

The long-pending issue, currently before a tribunal, remains unresolved despite years of deliberations. Recently, activists from organisations such as the Mahanadi Banchao Andolan, Daya Suraksha Abhiyan, Chilika Banchao Andolan, and Nadi Suraksha Samiti submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, urging for immediate intervention in February. They also sought the Prime Minister’s involvement in the interstate dispute.

Locals allege that dam construction in Chhattisgarh has already affected water flow downstream. Local intelligentsia Ganesh Chandra Samal highlighted that the Mahanadi’s flow through Kendrapara, from Mahanangala under Mahakalapara block to Gadaromita, spans just 10 km. Tributaries like the Chitrotpala, Luna, Paika, and Birupa rivers rely heavily on Mahanadi’s flow.