Jayakwadi water share cut unjust, says expert

Water expert Dr Ya. Ra. Jadhav has accused leaders from Ahilyanagar and Nashik of repeatedly neglecting Marathwada’s rightful share of water from the Jayakwadi project.

Speaking at the Marathwada Water Council meeting on Saturday, he warned that the proposed 7% reduction in allocation could severely impact farmers and residents. The Godavari Study Group has suggested the cut, and the government has forwarded this recommendation to the Maharashtra Water Resources Regulatory Authority (MWRRA), which has invited public objections and suggestions until March 15. The water council convened at the Gram Vikas Sanstha office in Cidco N-2 to discuss the issue and strategize action.

Dr. Jadhav emphasized that Marathwada must assert its legal right under Section 12-6-(g) of the Equitable Water Distribution Act of 2005. “Despite the High Court’s clear order for fair allocation, the government has yet to define Jayakwadi’s rightful share and has instead proposed an unfair reduction,” he stated, questioning whether authorities intend to undermine the dam’s importance. Council president Narhari Shivpure, vice president Manohar Sarode, Dr. Jayasingh Hire, and other members guided attendees on filing objections. They also urged the government to publish the report in Marathi and extend the deadline by 45 days. With water security at stake, Marathwada’s response in the coming weeks could determine the future of the Jayakwadi project.