States should prepare legal framework on water: Chhattisgarh

"Water-related laws are important to be prepared at the level of states so that legal rights in this regard are fully with them," Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh said in his speech which was read out by the state Water Resources Minister Ramvichar Netam.

The draft national water policy proposes an overarching legal framework but says that it is only an umbrella statement of general principles, not aimed at encroaching upon the rights of the states.

Singh said in the coming years, multifold increase in the demand for water is expected and there was a need for a practical water policy.

"To meet the demand and supply of water would be a big challenge. To tackle such a problem, there is need to prepare a detailed plan," Singh said.

On the water disputes between states, he said Chhattisgarh "favours resolution of such issues through bilateral talks as early as possible."

The Chief Minister said the inter-linking of rivers was an option for supplying water to places facing scarcity but this has "economic, social, regional and environmental problems also."

Chhattisgarh expects that for any inter-state project, the Centre should not approve these without taking the consent of the states affected.