Punjab vs Haryana: Another face-off over water | EXPLAINED

Amid a stand-off between Punjab and Haryana over water-sharing, the Bhagwant Mann government on Monday moved a resolution in the state assembly here vowing not to spare even a single drop of water from its share for the neighbouring state.

In the past fortnight the two states have sparred with each other over allocation of water from the Bhakra-Nangal project.

Haryana has demanded an additional 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra-Nangal dam, citing immediate drinking water needs. However, Punjab has firmly opposed the move, insisting — “We don’t have a drop to spare!”

The dispute escalated when Haryana approached the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB)—the body overseeing the Bhakra project—for extra water. Though BBMB, controlled by the Union Government, comprises members from Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and two Central nominees, Haryana’s request was approved at the end of April. Punjab accused the Board of partisan behaviour, as BJP-ruled states allegedly voted along political lines.

Punjab has outright refused to implement the decision, prompting Haryana to announce plans to approach the Supreme Court. In retaliation, Punjab’s all-party meeting affirmed that the state’s water rights must be protected. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) even staged a dharna at Nangal Dam, physically blocking the water flow. Punjab’s Minister Harjot Singh Bains declared they had “taken control” of the dam and reinforced police presence in the area.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann argued that Haryana had already used 103% of its allotted share (2.987 MAF), while Punjab had consumed just 89% of its allocation (5.512 MAF). He stressed Punjab required water for the upcoming paddy sowing season, warning of rising canal water demand.

This row reflects deeper issues. Snowmelt decline has reduced river flows. Meanwhile, Punjab’s dependence on water-intensive rice cultivation exacerbates scarcity. Despite repeated advisories, crop diversification remains elusive.

READ MORE ON THE WATER ROW: https://openthemagazine.com/special/another-water-war-this-time-in-india/