Bhubaneswar: The 12-member BJD delegation scheduled to visit the controversial project sites on Mahanadi in Chhattisgarh has sought the cooperation of officials of the neighbouring State during the spot assessment, but is yet to receive any reply. The panel would also meet the Chief Ministers of both the States and the Prime Minister for an amicable solution.
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On the other hand, Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan today criticised the BJD vice president for his move on the Mahanadi issue and dubbed him as a “college level politician”. But we still wonder what prompted him to back out and say no later.
Odisha’s interest would never be compromised so far as Mahanadi water was concerned, the Union Minister said, adding necessary steps would be taken to ensure that Odisha got its due share of the river water without any cut. At present, the main issue is irregular flow of Mahanadi water in the downstream during the non-monsoon months (September to June). On formation of a joint control board (JCB) between the two states as per a 1983 agreement, the BJP leader said the BJD government has been evasive as all its lies and false propaganda would be exposed if such a body was formed. Time has come for the Chief Minister to set aside his party’s interest, he said. “We assure that not a drop of Mahanadi water will be stopped”. Besides, it will also form a committee, comprising either all-party leaders or some experts, to study the implications of Chhattisgarh’s projects on Odisha.
“In fact, it was the leader of Opposition who rose above party politics and called the all-party meet to protect the interest of the state”. It will also stage demonstrations in front of all the district headquarters from September 15 to September 22.
He urged the central government to intervene in the matter and tell Chattisgarh not to proceed with the construction of the dam.
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The team is headed by BJD Vice-President and Rajya Sabha member Prasanna Acharya and include ministers Debi Prasad Mishra, Pradip Kumar Amat and Sanjay Dasburma.
