Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday said he would do everything he can to protect the interests of the state and its people on the Mahanadi water issue."I assure each one of you that I will put my best efforts forward and leave no stone unturned in the fight for the rights of the people of our state," said Patnaik before leaving for New Delhi for a tripartite meeting on Saturday on the issue with his Chhattigarh counterpart Raman Singh and Union Water Resources Minister Uma Bharati.He said he is going to New Delhi with a lot of hope."I am going with a lot of hope that the Central Government will listen to the voice of Odisha and do justice to the people of our state on this sensitive Mahanadi issue," he said.Patnaik also thanked the various people's organisations, who came forward to give their suggestions.
In last three days, he held discussions with several organisations and political parties on the issue."It was heartening to know that many of them had done detailed research and had come up with well thought-out suggestions. I would also like to thank the various political parties and their leaders who come forward with valuable suggestions in the larger interest of the state and its people," he added.The Chief Minister was seen off by BJD leaders and thousands of supporters, who gathered along the road to the airport and waved placards and banners wishing him the best.Meanwhile, a preparatory meeting was held at the state secretariat chaired by Chief Secretary A.P. Padhi.On the other hand, Odisha Congress on Friday released a white paper on Mahanadi project issue.State Congress unit president Prasad Harichandan wished the Chief Minister success for the tripartite meeting."I wish the Chief Minister all success in the tripartite meeting. I hope that the meeting would resolve the Mahanadi water issue," said Harichandan, stressing that the interests of Odisha must be protected.