Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level meeting on October 1 to discuss the long-running Mahanadi water dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh. Senior officials from both states and the central government attended the meeting.

The Mahanadi river flows through Chhattisgarh before entering Odisha, where the Hirakud dam depends on its waters. Odisha has raised concerns about barrages built upstream in Chhattisgarh, saying they reduce the flow reaching its side. Chhattisgarh maintains that its projects are within its rights.

A water disputes tribunal was set up in 2018 to settle the matter, and its proceedings are still under way. The October 1 meeting reviewed the current status and discussed ways to move towards a resolution.

Officials said both states were asked to share updated data on water usage and project details. The Centre has been trying to push for a negotiated settlement alongside the tribunal process. A follow-up round of talks is expected in the coming weeks.