‘Completion of SYL Canal essential to resolve water dispute between Punjab and Haryana’

Former Haryana engineer Shiv Singh Rawat analyzes the Punjab-Haryana water dispute, highlighting legal, political, and operational challenges for resolution.

Amid the ongoing conflict between the Haryana and Punjab governments over water-sharing, former Superintending Engineer in Haryana’s Irrigation and Water Resources Department (I&WRD), Shiv Singh Rawat, offers insight into the Ravi-Beas water dispute, the legal deadlock, political polarisation, and institutional shortcomings. Excerpts:

What is the current water dispute between Punjab and Haryana?

In April 2025, Haryana reported a sharp decline in its water supply from the Bhakra dam and approached the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) to raise its allocation from 4,000 cusecs to 8,500 cusecs. The BBMB’s technical committee partially met the demand by approving an additional 4,500 cusecs for eight days. Punjab opposed the decision, claiming Haryana had already used 3.110 million acre-feet (MAF) — 104% of its sanctioned share for the depletion period (September 21, 2024-May 20, 2025). It argued that Bhakra and Pong dam levels were critically low and insisted on capping Haryana’s supply at 4,000 cusecs to protect its own agricultural needs.

Haryana countered that water reserves were sufficient and accused Punjab of making false claims. It also pointed out that Punjab had received 22% excess water over the past two decades. As tensions escalated, the BBMB sought intervention from the Central government. The Centre advised Punjab to follow the BBMB recommendation. But the deadlock continues.

What is the significance of the Ravi-Beas water dispute?

This is a long-standing inter-State conflict over the equitable sharing of surplus waters from the rivers. The dispute affects agriculture, drinking water, regional development, and political relations in northern India.

While Haryana cites historical agreements, tribunal rulings, and Supreme Court verdicts to demand its share, Punjab argues it lacks sufficient water due to rising demand and ecological degradation.