Punjab-Haryana Water Dispute: A Deep Dive into the Bhakra Dam Conflict

Introduction

The water-sharing conflict between Punjab and Haryana has reached a boiling point in 2025, stirring political, environmental, and legal tensions. The recent standoff over water flow from the Bhakra dam—one of India’s most critical hydro projects—has reignited a decades-old dispute, reflecting deeper concerns about interstate water allocation, governance, and regional sustainability.

What Triggered the Latest Punjab-Haryana Water Conflict ?

On May 9, 2025, the Punjab and Haryana High Court intervened after the Punjab government allegedly restricted the flow of water to Haryana from the Bhakra dam. This move followed a protest led by a Punjab Cabinet minister at the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) guesthouse, reportedly preventing the chairperson from releasing water.

The court called the events “unbelievable,” suggesting they signaled serious governance failures. It warned of potential contempt proceedings if Punjab continues to defy court orders and BBMB protocols.

Bhakra-Nangal Project: A Vital Lifeline of Northern India

The Bhakra-Nangal Dam is not just an engineering marvel but a critical water source for Punjab, Haryana, and neighboring states. Here’s why it matters:

• Asia’s second-tallest dam, after Tehri Dam
• India’s tallest straight gravity dam
• Located at the Punjab-Himachal Pradesh borderon the Sutlej River
• Creates the Gobind Sagar Reservoir
• Operated by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB)

Historical Significance

• Proposed in 1944 by Sir Chhotu Ram
• Approved by the Indian government in 1945
• Construction began in 1948, and it was inaugurated in 1963 by Prime Minister Nehru
• Total project cost: ₹245.28 crore

Water Allocation: The Root of the Dispute

Water from the Bhakra dam is allocated annually by the BBMB based on monsoon forecasts and reservoir levels. For the current year:

• Punjab was allocated 5.512 million acre-feet (MAF)
• Haryana received 2.987 MAF

The Controversy

Punjab claims Haryana has already consumed 104% of its allotted share, accusing it of misusing the water. Meanwhile, Haryana insists it is only receiving what is rightfully theirs.

Impact of Depleting Water Levels

Both Ranjit Sagar and Pong Dams—key reservoirs in the region—are operating below last year’s capacity. With summer peaking, the looming threat of drought exacerbates the urgency of the situation.

The low water availability raises red flags for irrigation, drinking water, and electricity production in both states.

Punjab’s Position: “Haryana Is Overdrawing Water”

Punjab maintains that Haryana’s actual drinking water requirement is significantly lower than its current demand. Officials argue that Punjab is already extending humanitarian support by providing excess water and that the current use is unsustainable.

Central Government’s Intervention and Stalemate

The Union Home Secretary recently tried to mediate, proposing a temporary water loan from Punjab to Haryana. The agreement involved Haryana returning the borrowed water later in the season.

However, Punjab boycotted the meeting, alleging procedural violations, and refused to accept the deal.

Legal Standpoint: What the Courts Have Said

The Punjab and Haryana High Court had previously issued orders to:

• Prohibit Punjab from interfering with BBMB’s operations
• Enforce compliance with BBMB’s water release protocols

Continued defiance from the Punjab government could trigger contempt proceedings against top state officials.

Conclusion : What Lies Ahead?

The Punjab-Haryana water-sharing conflict highlights the urgent need for a sustainable, transparent, and legally enforceable interstate water-sharing mechanism. With declining water reserves and rising political temperatures, the issue goes beyond two states—it poses a national challenge that demands central leadership and long-term water governance reform.