Bhubaneswar, 01 August (H.S.): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday described the recent meeting on the Mahanadi water dispute held in New Delhi as “highly significant” for the state, expressing optimism that a resolution pathway could emerge within the next three months.

Addressing the media at Lok Seva Bhawan after returning from his three-day visit to the national capital, the Chief Minister said the meeting, chaired by Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil on July 30, was held in a cordial atmosphere and focused on finding an amicable solution. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai also participated in the discussions.

Majhi emphasized that Odisha’s interests, including the rights of its people, the welfare of farmers, and environmental protection, were strongly highlighted during the deliberations.

He further informed that a technical committee constituted under the Chairmanship of the Central Water Commission will submit its report to the Mahanadi Tribunal within three months. “This gives us hope for a resolution to the long-standing water dispute, and we expect the upcoming Diwali to be auspicious for us,” the Chief Minister said.

During his visit, Majhi also met Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and NITI Aayog member as well as member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council Prof. K.V. Raju, and held discussions on various issues concerning the state’s development.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda