Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): In a surprising turn, Haryana has approached the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and Punjab authorities with a request to reduce the release of nearly 2,500 cusecs of water into its canal system, even as Punjab battles worsening floods.
The appeal has raised eyebrows since only a few days ago Haryana was seeking additional water to meet its requirements. Officials in Punjab caution that curtailing the outflow now could further aggravate the flood situation in the state, where relief teams are already stretched thin.
Notably, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini had earlier written to Punjab’s Chief Minister, assuring full support during the ongoing natural calamity. Punjab officials argue that the latest demand runs contrary to that promise, as reducing water flow would leave Punjab with greater volumes to manage within already swollen river basins.
Experts believe the conflicting requests reflect the mounting pressure both states face in managing water resources during an unpredictable monsoon. While Haryana is concerned about its storage and irrigation planning, Punjab is battling to keep floodwaters from spreading into more villages.
BBMB is expected to review the matter, though no decision has yet been announced. For now, Punjab continues to warn that limiting the water release may translate into heavier losses on its side of the border.
