Haryana Demands Action on Stalled SYL Canal Project

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2025-05-01 00:27:12 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-21 18:35:53

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92 kilometers of canal lie ready, built by Haryana. But its counterpart, a 122-kilometer stretch meant to be constructed by Punjab, remains unfinished, a stark symbol of the decades-long water dispute between the two states. The Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal project, intended to share the waters of the Sutlej and Yamuna rivers, has become a focal point of political tension, and Haryana's opposition leaders are now demanding immediate action.

The SYL project, envisioned as a 214-kilometer waterway, was designed to channel water from the Sutlej river in Punjab to the Yamuna river in Haryana. Haryana completed its 92-kilometer portion years ago. However, Punjab, which initiated construction in 1982, later halted the project, leading to a protracted legal battle and inter-state discord. The dispute revolves around Punjab's claim of dwindling water resources and its reluctance to share water with Haryana. The resulting stalemate has left Haryana facing water scarcity, particularly in its southern districts, impacting agriculture and daily life.

Haryana's opposition parties are now intensifying pressure on the state government to resolve the issue. They argue that the delay in completing the SYL canal is jeopardizing Haryana's water security and hindering its economic development. Opposition leaders have organized protests and rallies, demanding that the government take concrete steps to ensure the project's completion. They are calling for a renewed dialogue with the Punjab government and urging the central government to intervene and facilitate a resolution. The opposition contends that the current situation is unsustainable and that a long-term solution is crucial for the well-being of Haryana's citizens.

The SYL canal issue has become deeply intertwined with regional politics, with both states taking strong positions. While Haryana insists on its right to the share of water as per the original agreements, Punjab maintains that the current agreements are no longer viable due to changed circumstances. This complex interplay of legal, political, and social factors has made finding a mutually acceptable solution challenging. The ongoing protests and demands from the Haryana opposition underscore the urgency of the situation and the need for a decisive approach to resolve this long-standing water dispute.

The SYL canal project remains a critical issue for both states, and its resolution is vital for ensuring water security and promoting regional cooperation. The ongoing pressure from Haryana's opposition parties highlights the growing public concern and the need for a swift and equitable solution. The future of the SYL canal, and the shared water resources of the region, hangs in the balance, awaiting a resolution that addresses the concerns of both states.

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