Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh urged the Centre on Monday to form a panel of experts to find ways to restrict the flow of the Ravi and Beas rivers into Pakistan, PTI reported. He also said the Centre should take a lead in ensuring that the water of the two rivers are harnessed optimally.
Singh said his government would take every possible step to secure more water for the state, but added that he had not yet received the letter Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had reportedly written to him on the matter.
Singh said he had written to Union Water Resources Minister Nitin Gadkari to suggest that excess water can be stored in dams in Himachal Pradesh to check its flow into Pakistan. Melting of ice leads to a rise in the water levels of the Ravi, Beas and Sutlej, which causes them to flow into Pakistan, Singh claimed to have told Gadkari.
A significant amount of Ravi water – 5,80,000 acre feet – flows across the border through its tributaries, Singh said.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!