Punjab Government Opposes Order to Release Additional Water to Haryana. Cabinet Minister Harjot Bains protested at Nangal Dam, stating Punjab is already facing a water shortage.
Punjab-Haryana: A new water dispute has erupted between Punjab and Haryana. The situation intensified following a recent order to release an additional 8500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra Dam to Haryana. The Punjab government has opposed this order, and Cabinet Minister Harjot Bains joined protesting workers in a sit-in at the Nangal Dam. He stated that Punjab is already grappling with a severe water shortage and cannot afford to release additional water to Haryana.
CM Bhagwant Mann's Strong Statement
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann visited Nangal Dam and expressed his concerns. He highlighted Punjab's severe water shortage and the low water levels in its dams. He emphatically stated, "We don't have a single drop of water to spare; we will not release any additional water under any circumstances." The Chief Minister questioned, "How can the BBMB (Bhakra Beas Management Board) function without Punjab's cooperation?"
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also mentioned that Haryana has never previously drawn water from Punjab and is now demanding water for its canals. He asserted that given the situation, the Punjab government must protect its water rights and will not release any additional water to Haryana under any circumstances.
Punjab's Water Situation and its Impact
The Chief Minister reported a decline in water levels across all major dams in Punjab. The Bhakra Dam's water level has dropped from 1566 feet to 1555 feet. Pong and Ranjit Sagar dams also have depleted water levels, worsening Punjab's water crisis. The Chief Minister stated that considering this crisis, releasing additional water to Haryana is not a viable option.
Cabinet Minister Harjot Bains' Support
Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains reiterated Punjab's commitment to protecting its water rights. He questioned, "Punjab is already facing a water shortage; how can we give our share to others?" He emphasized that Punjab's share of water must remain with Punjab. He also highlighted the ongoing water problems in several villages in the Nangal area, expressing serious concern.
BBMB Locks Down, Departments Instructed
Amidst the escalating dispute, the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) has locked down the dam. Meanwhile, recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the Punjab government has instructed all departments to ensure compliance with the Chief Minister's orders. The Punjab government has stated it will closely monitor the BBMB officials' activities.
