Saturday, March 29, 2025
Tensions Escalate Between Punjab and Haryana Over Bhakra Dam Water; Centre Calls Urgent Meeting
Tensions Escalate Between Punjab : A fresh water dispute has flared up between Punjab and Haryana. The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) recently decided to provide extra water to Haryana, triggering strong opposition from Punjab. In response, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has scheduled an emergency meeting on May 2 in New Delhi.
Chief Secretaries from Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh will attend the meeting. BBMB’s chairman and officials from the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti will also be present.
Haryana’s Demand:
Haryana requested 8,500 cusecs of additional water from Bhakra Dam. BBMB approved this request during a meeting, which immediately sparked a backlash from Punjab.
Punjab’s Objection:
Punjab argued that its groundwater levels are falling rapidly. About 71% of the state is affected. Therefore, it must conserve water for the upcoming paddy season. Punjab also claimed that Haryana has already used its allotted share.
BBMB removed Director (Water Regulation) Akashdeep Singh and replaced him with Sanjeev Kumar, a Haryana nominee. This move caused further friction. Punjab engineers questioned Kumar’s qualifications and experience. As a result, the process to release water from the dam came to a halt.
CM Bhagwant Mann’s Visit:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann visited the Nangal Dam to assess the situation firsthand. He declared that Punjab owns its water and added that not even a single drop is surplus.
Increased Security:
Authorities boosted police presence around Nangal Dam. They also restricted public access to the area.
Political Standpoint:
CM Mann adopted a firm stance against the Centre and the BJP. He emphasized that Punjab will not compromise its water rights.
Special Assembly Session:
Punjab will hold a special session of the Legislative Assembly on May 5. Lawmakers are expected to pass a resolution opposing the Centre, Haryana, and BBMB’s decision.
All-Party Meeting:
All major political parties in Punjab will meet at 10 AM on May 2. The goal is to establish a united front on the water issue.
The Bhakra Dam water dispute has intensified tensions between Punjab and Haryana. While Punjab refuses to release more water, Haryana stands firm on its demand. To ease the standoff, the Centre has stepped in. The situation remains sensitive, and upcoming meetings may shape its direction.
