New Delhi/Mumbai: Maharashtra has secured access to 10 TMC of water from the Narmada project, resolving a long-pending issue that remained unsettled for nearly two decades. The breakthrough was announced by Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis after a high-level meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit shah in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by the Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, along with Union Jal Shakti Minister.
Fadnavis said Maharashtra was entitled to 10 TMC of water from the Narmada project but had not received its share despite the project’s completion. Under the new agreement 5 TMC of water will be supplied through the Narmada–Tapi Diversion Scheme, while the remaining 5 TMC will be lifted from the Ukai Dam during the monsoon period, when adequate water is available. Gujarat has agreed to facilitate the arrangement, which has also received approval from the Union government.
The Chief Minister said the state government is preparing a detailed implementation plan for lifting water from the Ukai Dam. The additional water is expected to significantly benefit several districts in North Maharashtra.
Fadnavis also said several pending financial issues related to the Narmada project were resolved during the meeting. Maharashtra’s outstanding liability has now been reduced to only ₹27 crore, with the remaining dues waived.
Separately the Chief Minister attended a review meeting on renewable energy initiatives. He thanked the Centre for allocating 51% of the total funds under the PM KUSUM scheme to Maharashtra the highest share among all states and requested continued support under the revised scheme. He also said Maharashtra aims to expand implementation of the PM Surya Ghar initiative with greater assistance from the Centre.
