• UGI USER
  • Nov 10, 2023
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Q. In the light of increasing Inter-state water disputes in India. Discuss the factors behind it and also suggest pragmatic measures to resolve it.

 

Structure of Answer

Introduction

  • Mention the issue of water scarcity in India using Central Water Commission (CWC) data and issue of increase in interstate water disputes.

Body

  • Mention Factors Contributing to Interstate Water Disputes in India.
  • Mention Pragmatic Measures for Resolution of Interstate River Water Disputes with examples.

Conclusion

  • To resolve issue of interstate water disputes combination of legal frameworks, data-driven decision-making, regional cooperation needed.

 Answer:

According to the Central Water Commission (CWC), the average annual per capita water availability in India was 1,545 cubic meters in 2011 which declined to 1,486 cubic meters in 2021. This scarcity, coupled with uneven distribution of water resources across the country, has led to an increase in interstate water disputes having a significant impact on the lives of millions of people.

Factors Contributing to Interstate Water Disputes in India

  • Uneven Distribution of Water Resources: Disparity in water availability due to varying rainfall patterns creates competition among states sharing river systems.
  • Growing Population: Increased population raises the demand for water, straining limited resources and intensifying conflicts.
  • Competing Water Uses: Agriculture, industry, and domestic sectors vie for water access, leading to clashes over divergent needs.
  • Infrastructure Projects: Construction of dams and inter-basin water transfer projects can alter the water flow dynamics, like Mullaperiyar dam dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu
  • Political and Historical Factors: Historical agreements and political considerations contribute to conflicting claims, hindering dispute resolution.
  • Climate Change Impact: Altered climate patterns affect river flows, amplifying the likelihood of disputes, as seen in the Godavari River conflict between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Pragmatic Measures for Resolution of Interstate River Water Disputes

  • Constitutional Mechanisms: Encouraging states to use constitutional provisions like Article 262 (Inter-state water disputes) and the Interstate River Water Disputes Act, 1956, to seek legal arbitration, as done in the Krishna River dispute.
  • Negotiate Interstate Agreements: States must negotiate equitable water sharing based on data, with conflict resolution mechanisms.
  • Promote Water Conservation: Implement efficient practices in agriculture, industry, and households, reducing water consumption.
  • Technology Integration: Implementing advanced technology for efficient water management, like telemetry systems in rivers, as done in the Narmada River dispute among Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.
  • Develop Water Infrastructure: Invest in storage, irrigation, and treatment facilities for optimal water management.
  • Enhance Public Participation: Encourage public involvement in decision-making and awareness of water issues.
  • Climate-Resilient Practices: Implement climate-resilient water management strategies to adapt to changing rainfall patterns.

Inter-state water disputes pose a significant challenge to India’s federal structure. Addressing these disputes requires a combination of legal frameworks, data-driven decision-making, regional cooperation, and the adoption of modern and climate-resilient water management practices. Timely resolution of these disputes is essential to ensure sustainable water usage and harmonious inter-state relations, contributing to the nations overall development and prosperity.