Haryana writes to Punjab, Bhakra Beas board, requests reduction in canal water supply
The Haryana government has written to the Punjab government and the Bhakra Beas Management Board, saying that as its rivers are overflowing, it only needs 6,250 cusecs of water now.
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This request comes just a week after Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini wrote to his Punjab counterpart, Bhagwant Mann, offering support to the flood-hit state. (File photo)The Haryana government has written to the Punjab government and the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), requesting a reduction in the water being released into the state’s canals, citing the ongoing heavy rainfall and reduced water demand.
In a letter written on August 29, the chief engineer of the Haryana Irrigation and Water Resources Department has asked Punjab to reduce the flow by around 2,500 cusecs of water, saying that rainfall has significantly lowered the demand for water, and continuing the current supply would put pressure on water resources.
This request comes just a week after Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini wrote to his Punjab counterpart, Bhagwant Mann, offering support to the flood-hit state.
Haryana’s own rivers are now overflowing, prompting the state to propose a reduction in the canal water supply. In the letter, Haryana stated that the water discharge at the Haryana Contact Point (HCP) on August 29 was 8,894 cusecs, exceeding the state’s earlier demand of 7,900 cusecs. Previously, on August 26, Haryana had reduced its indent to 7,900 cusecs, but the water discharge remained unchanged. Due to continuous rainfall, water demand in the canal and catchment areas fell further. As a result, a fresh request was issued on August 29, stating that only 6,250 cusecs of water are required now.
“In light of the ongoing flood situation and the safety of canal systems and the surrounding population, you are requested to direct your concerned officer to adjust the indent in the Head BML with immediate effect,” the letter stated.
Last month, Haryana had requested more water from Punjab, citing agricultural and drinking water needs. “But with the current flood situation and Haryana’s own rivers in crisis, it is now proposing a reduction”, an official privy to the developments said.
Meanwhile, Punjab is still grappling with severe flooding in many districts. A large number of villages are submerged, and rescue operations are ongoing. The water levels in the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers are still dangerously high, with concerns over potential embankment breaches.
As of now, the BBMB has not made a final decision regarding Haryana’s request. The matter remains in limbo as both states navigate their water-sharing arrangements.
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