Punjab Refutes Haryana’s Claim on Full Water Share, Clarifies Real-Time BML Canal Data

Chandigarh, May 23, 2025: In response to recent reports circulated by the Haryana government claiming it is receiving its full 10,300 cusecs share of water from the Bhakra Main Line (BML) Canal, the Punjab government has issued a press note calling the claims misleading and factually incorrect.

Clarifying the actual status as of 12:00 noon on May 23, 2025, Punjab authorities stated that the total designed flow capacity of the BML Canal is 11,700 cusecs, but even that volume had not yet reached Punjab’s territory. “The inflow is being increased gradually and has not stabilized at full capacity,” the press note read.

Punjab officials reported that as of noon, 9,690 cusecs of water was available at the BML’s entry point in Punjab. Of this, Punjab is utilizing 2,025 cusecs for its own needs. Once the shares of Delhi and Rajasthan are accounted for, Haryana is receiving only 6,720 cusecs—not the 10,300 cusecs it has claimed in public statements.

Reiterating its position, Punjab has asserted its right to utilize its full share of 3,000 cusecs from the canal. The remaining water, according to the BML’s capacity and real-time availability, will be allocated to Haryana accordingly.

The Punjab government urged Haryana to “refrain from such cheap publicity tactics” and be transparent with its citizens regarding the actual water distribution status. The statement reflects Punjab’s firm stance amid the ongoing inter-state dispute over water allocation, as rising demand and political tensions continue to escalate in both states.