PTC Web Desk: Haryana is staring at a potential water crisis as supply through the Beas-Sutlej Link (BSL) has reportedly come to a complete halt.

A letter issued by the Chief Engineer of the state’s Irrigation and Water Resources Department has revealed that Haryana has not received any water through the BSL canal since March 4. The communication, dated March 16, highlighted that gauge readings at the BSL have consistently remained at zero, indicating no water flow towards the state during this period.

Expressing concern over the situation, the department has sought an explanation from the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) regarding the stoppage of water release.

Shortfall in Haryana’s water share likely

Officials said the continuous zero gauge readings clearly suggest a complete disruption in water flow through the BSL system. This raises concerns that Haryana may be receiving less than its allocated share, which could directly impact water availability across the state.

Possible impact on Delhi-NCR supply

The letter further noted that Haryana is heavily dependent on water from the Beas and Sutlej rivers. With the Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal yet to be constructed, the state is already operating with a limited carrying capacity of 1.62 million acre-feet (MAF).

Any further reduction in supply could adversely affect not only Haryana but also water availability in the Delhi-NCR region, which relies partly on these sources.

Demand for immediate release of water

The Haryana government has urged the BBMB to release water without delay, stressing that the state’s share should not be reduced to zero. It has also requested that regular water supply be restored through the BSL Sundernagar system to prevent the situation from worsening.