Rajasthan Seeks Permanent Membership in Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB)
Rajasthan pushes for full membership in BBMB to ensure its water interests are represented.
Source: The HinduRajasthan has requested permanent membership in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). Currently, Rajasthan is a member of the BBMB's advisory committee but not a permanent member. The state argues that its permanent inclusion is crucial for protecting its water share from the Bhakra and Beas projects. This move aims to give Rajasthan a direct say in decisions regarding water storage and distribution, especially concerning the maximum reservoir levels of dams managed by BBMB. The state's minister emphasized the need for quick decisions on water storage after necessary studies are completed.
- Rajasthan is currently an advisory member, not a permanent member, of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).
- The state seeks permanent membership to safeguard its share of water from the Bhakra and Beas river projects.
- Permanent membership would allow Rajasthan to participate directly in decisions on water storage and distribution.
- The request highlights the importance of expeditious decisions on dam reservoir levels after studies.
- BBMB manages the Bhakra and Beas projects, which are vital for water supply to several northern Indian states.
BBMB is a statutory body established under the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966. It is responsible for the administration, maintenance, and operation of the Bhakra Nangal Project and Beas Project, including the Bhakra Dam, Pong Dam, and Pandoh Dam. Its primary function is to regulate the supply of water and power to partner states.
These are conflicts between two or more states in India over the sharing and control of river waters. Such disputes are often resolved through tribunals or negotiations, as water is a state subject but rivers are often inter-state. The Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956, provides a framework for resolving these issues.
This Act led to the division of the erstwhile state of Punjab into the new states of Punjab and Haryana, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh. It also established the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) to manage the shared water resources and power projects between the successor states.
Questions often focus on inter-state water disputes, the role of bodies like BBMB, and the states involved in major river projects.
Remember BBMB manages Bhakra and Beas, two 'B' rivers. Rajasthan wants a 'B'igger say in 'B'BMB.