Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Declares No Water Available for Sharing with Other States

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has firmly stated that the state cannot share its water resources with any other state. This declaration was made during a meeting with the Ravi Beas Water Tribunal, which is responsible for resolving water disputes between Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Mann emphasised that Punjab lacks surplus water and requires a reassessment of water availability based on international standards.

Mann highlighted that Punjab's groundwater situation is dire, with 76.5% of its blocks being overexploited. In contrast, Haryana has 61.5% of its blocks in a similar condition. The chief minister stressed that Punjab's river resources have diminished significantly, making it challenging to meet irrigation needs. He reiterated that there is no possibility of sharing even a drop of water with other states.

Water Allocation Concerns

The chief minister also raised concerns about the allocation of Yamuna waters. He pointed out that while the Yamuna, like the Ravi and Beas rivers, flowed through the former state of Punjab, its waters were not considered during the division between Punjab and Haryana. Mann argued that if Haryana receives Ravi-Beas waters as a successor state, Punjab should similarly be entitled to Yamuna waters.

Mann informed the tribunal members about Punjab's efforts to use canal water for irrigation. When he took office, only 21% of canal water was utilised for this purpose. However, due to the government's efforts, this figure has now increased to 84%. The Union government reported an improvement in groundwater levels by one metre.

Efforts to Protect Water Resources

The Punjab government has consistently highlighted the issue of limited water availability on various platforms. Mann asserted that protecting future generations' rights is crucial and that the government is committed to safeguarding the state's interests by all means necessary.

Mann urged the tribunal members visiting Punjab for a site inspection of the Ravi water system to ensure justice for the state's residents. He emphasised that Punjab's government will leave no stone unturned in protecting its people's interests.

The chief minister reiterated that Haryana is not a basin state for the Ravi and Beas rivers, yet Punjab is compelled to share these waters with Haryana. He argued that if Haryana can claim these waters as a successor state, then by the same logic, Yamuna waters should be shared with Punjab.

Mann concluded by expressing pride in the state's achievements in increasing canal water usage for irrigation. He noted that these efforts have positively impacted groundwater levels, as reported by the Union government.