Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann firmly stated on Wednesday that the state does not have any surplus water to share with other states. Speaking before the Ravi-Beas Water Tribunal—tasked with resolving water disputes between Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan—Mann emphasized that Punjab cannot afford to give away even a single drop of its water.

During a meeting with the tribunal, led by Justice Vineet Saran and other members, Mann reiterated that Punjab’s water resources are already overburdened. He stressed the need for a reassessment of water availability based on international standards, arguing that Punjab’s groundwater situation is critical. According to him, 76.5% of Punjab’s blocks (117 out of 153) are over-exploited, compared to 61.5% (88 out of 143) in Haryana.

Mann highlighted that Punjab's rivers have dried up significantly, and the state is struggling to meet its own irrigation needs. Given this dire situation, he said, there is simply no possibility of sharing water with other states. He urged the tribunal members, who are visiting Punjab to inspect the Ravi water system, to ensure a just resolution for the state.

The chief minister also pointed out a long-standing issue regarding water distribution. While both Punjab and Haryana were successor states after reorganization, only Punjab was required to share its Ravi-Beas waters, while Haryana was granted full access to Yamuna waters. Mann argued that if Haryana can receive Ravi-Beas water as Punjab’s successor, Punjab should have a claim to Yamuna waters as well.

To address Punjab’s water crisis, Mann said his government has been working hard to increase the use of canal water for irrigation. When he took office, only 21% of canal water was being utilized, but now, 84% is being used for agricultural purposes. He also mentioned a Union government report showing that groundwater levels have improved by about a meter, thanks to the state’s efforts. Mann reaffirmed that his government is committed to protecting Punjab’s water rights for future generations and will leave no stone unturned in safeguarding the interests of the state and its farmers.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI