What role should the federal government play in water disputes?

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The Federal Government's Role in Inter-State Water Disputes

The federal government should play a role in facilitating negotiations and providing compensation related to raw water charges between states. This involvement is seen as appropriate given that states conserve water resources which are then supplied to other states. Specifically, the federal government could mediate discussions and offer financial compensation to states that act as water catchment areas.
Federal Involvement in Negotiations

When disputes arise over raw water charges between states, it is suggested that the federal government should be involved in the negotiation process. This approach aims to resolve such issues through more cordial means, avoiding confrontational tactics. The principle is that any state or entity drawing water supply from another state should contribute financially, and federal mediation can help facilitate these agreements.
Compensation for Water Resource Conservation

States that conserve water resources, particularly those serving as catchment areas for other states, should receive compensation. The federal government has a role in identifying and facilitating these compensation mechanisms. For example, Kedah's conservation of forest areas as a water catchment for both Penang and Perlis warrants financial recognition and support from the federal level.
Framework for Raw Water Charges

The practice of imposing raw water charges on entities that receive water supply from a state is considered appropriate. This is based on the understanding that the source state incurs costs and makes sacrifices, such as dedicating forest land for water catchment. Consequently, states like Penang, which draw water from the Ulu Muda River sourced in Kedah, should adhere to such charges, ideally through a structured framework supported by federal oversight.

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What role should the federal government play in water disputes?

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