Why in the News?

Tensions escalated between Punjab and Haryana after the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) decided to release an extra 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra dam to Haryana, sparking political and legal opposition from Punjab.

About the Punjab-Haryana Water Dispute:

• The dispute dates back to 1966 when Haryana was created from Punjab and was promised a share of river waters from the Ravi and Beas rivers.
• The Satluj-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal was proposed to deliver Haryana’s share but remains incomplete due to Punjab’s resistance.
• The current issue involves Punjab and Haryana over the release of additional water from the Bhakra dam, managed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).
• On April 30, 2025, BBMB ordered the release of 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana for drinking needs, which Punjab opposed, claiming Haryana had already withdrawn 104% of its annual share.
• Water levels in the Bhakra, Pong, and Ranjit Sagar dams are low due to poor snowfall in the Himalayas.
• Punjab argues that BBMB’s decision is unilateral and has refused to open the Nangal dam sluice gates.

Inter-State Water Dispute Resolution in India:

• Article 262 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to legislate on inter-state river water disputes and bar courts from intervening in such matters.
• River Boards Act, 1956 allows creation of boards for inter-state river management, but no such board has ever been constituted.
• Inter-State Water Disputes Act, 1956 provides for:
  • Conciliation by the Centre among aggrieved states.
  • Tribunal formation if conciliation fails.
• The 2002 amendment mandates:
  • Formation of a tribunal within 1 year.
  • Tribunal decision within 3 years.
• Supreme Court cannot question the award of a tribunal but can examine procedural issues.
• Other prominent disputes include Krishna, Cauvery, and the Satluj Yamuna Link canal disputes.

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