Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil, Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini and Rajasthan chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma were also present at the meeting chaired by Shah.
During the meeting, Paatil said an agreement on the sharing of Yamuna waters among the Upper Yamuna Basin states was reached in 1994 but remained unimplemented for over three decades. “Continuous dialogue and efforts have taken place on this matter over the past few years. A consensus on the implementation framework was reached earlier this month and formalised on Monday through MoA under the chairmanship of the Union home minister,” he said. “Under this project, Rajasthan’s share of water will be supplied from the Hathnikund Barrage through an underground pipeline via the Western Yamuna Canal system during the monsoon season. This will ensure a long-term solution to the drinking water needs of Churu, Sikar, Jhunjhunu and other water-stressed regions of Rajasthan,” he added.
Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma termed the development a “historic milestone” for both states and said it would benefit millions of people. “Today is a momentous day for both states – a day that will be etched in history in golden letters. This agreement marks a historic step towards fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of millions of people across both states, as well as those of future generations.”