The SYL Canal is crucial for resolving the water conflict between Punjab and Haryana.

The Ravi-Beas water dispute between Haryana and Punjab is a long-standing inter-State conflict over the equitable sharing of surplus waters from rivers. The dispute affects agriculture, drinking water, regional development, and political relations in northern India. Haryana cites historical agreements, tribunal rulings, and Supreme Court verdicts to demand its share, while Punjab argues it lacks sufficient water due to rising demand and ecological degradation. The key challenge is the non-completion of the Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal, which has not been enforced. Solutions include completing the SYL Canal, alternative water transport systems, irrigation efficiency upgrades, crop diversification, water conservation, and groundwater monitoring.