
New Delhi, December 14, 2024: Justice Bela M. Trivedi has been appointed as the chairperson of the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal, following the resignation of Justice A.M. Khanwilkar. This marks a significant development after a seven-month vacancy in the tribunal, which was set up in 2018 to resolve the water-sharing dispute between the states of Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
The Mahanadi water dispute is a long-standing issue, with both states claiming rights over the allocation of water from the Mahanadi River, crucial for irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes. Justice Trivedi’s appointment is expected to bring new momentum in resolving the matter, which has affected millions of people dependent on the river for their daily needs.
Justice Trivedi, known for her experience in constitutional and water law, is poised to lead the tribunal’s efforts in facilitating an equitable and fair solution for both states. Her leadership is seen as vital in resolving this critical issue, which holds importance for the region’s socio-economic development and inter-state relations.