Water War: Punjab and Haryana Seek Amicable SYL Canal Solution

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini have engaged in discussions about the prolonged Sutlej-Yamuna Link canal issue. Their meeting reflected a positive atmosphere, as mandated by the Supreme Court, to ensure a resolution to the longstanding water-sharing conflict between the states.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his Haryana counterpart Nayab Singh Saini met on Tuesday to address the prolonged Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal dispute. Discussions unfolded in a "cordial atmosphere," focusing on finding a mutual resolution.

During a press briefing, the leaders communicated that state officials will further deliberate on the contentious issue, which has persisted between the two states for years. Their meeting lasted over an hour at a Chandigarh hotel and was a response to a Supreme Court directive.

Both chief ministers emphasized the positive nature of the discussions. Mann reassured, "Haryana is not our enemy, it is our brother," and reiterated the necessity of resolving the matter. The SYL canal's completion remains critical for equitable water distribution. Former efforts were delayed, with conflicting demands over water resources on both sides.

(With inputs from agencies.)