No rain, Capt stand leaves Rajasthan high and dry

As political uproar over the Punjab government’s decision to scrap water treaties continue, seven districts of Rajasthan are facing water crisis, more severe than ever before.

Deficient monsoon rains and Punjab’s decision have affected acres of fields in the state and the administration is worried about hundreds of villages likely to go without drinking water. ‘‘Ironically, taking care of the needs of Rajasthan and its people was one of the main components of the 1960 agreement,’’ says Rakesh Srivastav, Irrigation secretary. ‘‘We believe that the deal was sacrosanct. Now we will try our best to ensure our people do not go thirsty,’’ he added.

The Rajasthan government has been pursuing the case since the last couple of months — first complaining about the release of less water by Punjab and then ensuring a consensus on the issue.

‘‘We will not let our rights go,’’ CM Vasundhara Raje told the Assembly before heading to Delhi to meet the Prime Minister. She added the state government would do all it takes to secure the 52.69 pc water share.