Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday claimed that Haryana has used Bhakra dam water responsibly this season, stating that only about 70% of its allocated share has been utilised so far.
Mann said Haryana has not used “even a single extra drop” and will continue to receive water till May 21. He added that Punjab had been regularly writing to Haryana to ensure proper usage.
The Chief Minister also announced that canal water supply in Punjab has begun from May 1, with around 25,000 cusecs being released. Direct sowing of paddy in the state will take place from May 15 to May 31, during which farmers will get canal water as well as eight hours of power supply.
On storage concerns, Mann said there will be no shortage of space for paddy procurement this year. He mentioned his recent meeting with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, adding that around 290 special trains are being run to ensure smooth grain movement.
Responding to remarks by Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar, who had demanded ₹15,000 crore for clearing DA dues of state employees, Mann hit back saying Jakhar should first ensure that “Modi’s guarantees” are fulfilled.
