Bhubaneswar: The long-standing conflict regarding river water between Odisha and Chhattisgarh received a potential boost towards resolution following an important hearing at the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal in New Delhi on Thursday.

During this session, the tribunal suggested that both states should consider resolving their issues through mutual discussions rather than extending the legal battle.

The tribunal highlighted the important role that the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Ministry of Jal Shakti could play in initiating dialogue and mediating between the two states.

This recommendation signifies a pivotal moment in the decades-long dispute concerning the distribution of Mahanadi River waters, which has frequently caused political and administrative tensions between Odisha and Chhattisgarh.

The tribunal has scheduled the next hearing for August 21 to continue the proceedings.

Following this hearing, Odisha’s Advocate General Pitambar Acharya expressed his optimism regarding the developments, suggesting that there is a renewed opportunity for resolving the conflict through cooperative discussions between the states.

The Mahanadi River is of great significance to Odisha, as its water resources are vital for agriculture, industry, and the livelihoods of millions.