Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Mhadei Bachao Abhiyan (MBA) criticised the functioning of the Centre-appointed PRAWAH committee, alleging that it has not acted impartially in the long-running Mhadei river dispute and accusing the Goa government of not taking an assertive approach to protect the state’s interests.
Addressing a press conference, MBA convenor Nirmala Sawant said the state government has failed to pursue the issue with the urgency it deserves and questioned whether the PRAWAH mechanism has delivered any meaningful progress since its formation.
She alleged that the committee’s actions have favoured Karnataka while Goa’s objections have received inadequate attention. According to Sawant, several years after PRAWAH was constituted, the dispute remains unresolved despite repeated discussions.
The Abhiyan also expressed dissatisfaction over the committee’s field visit in 2024, alleging that the Kankumbi area was left out of the inspection despite requests from Goa to examine alleged violations connected with Karnataka’s diversion-related activities.
Calling for greater public participation, Sawant urged Goans to unite in safeguarding the Mhadei river, warning that delays in addressing the issue could have long-term consequences for the state.
PRAWAH was set up by the Union government to facilitate discussions among Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra on the sharing and management of the Mhadei river basin. The authority has maintained that the dispute should be resolved through dialogue while ensuring sustainable and equitable use of the river’s water resources.
