Former Minister Harish Rao Urges Action on Telangana Irrigation Concerns
Hyderabad: Former minister T Harish Rao has written to Union Minister Kishan Reddy, requesting immediate attention to unresolved irrigation projects in Telangana. In his letter, Rao emphasized the need to address concerns surrounding the Godavari-Banakacharla Link Project proposed by Andhra Pradesh.
The Godavari-Banakacharla Link Project is a massive initiative by the Andhra Pradesh government, estimated to cost Rs 80,000 crore. Its goal is to divert 200 tmcft of water from the Godavari River to the Penna Basin via the Banakacharla Regulator Complex. According to reports, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has already sought financial support for the project by sending letters to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Additionally, the Union Government has asked the Godavari River Management Board to share project details, signaling that the proposal is under consideration.
Harish Rao expressed significant concerns over the project, especially among Telangana irrigation experts. He warned that such a project could threaten Telangana’s rightful share of Godavari waters. Citing the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014, Rao pointed out that any new project on inter-state rivers requires approval from the respective river management boards and the Apex Council. However, Andhra Pradesh appears to have bypassed these protocols, moving forward without consulting Telangana or obtaining the necessary clearances.
Rao also highlighted the historical context of water allocation in the region. The Godavari Tribunal had previously allocated 1,480 tmcft of water to the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh, with 968 tmcft earmarked for various projects in Telangana. Unfortunately, due to delays during the undivided state’s tenure, Telangana was able to utilize only about 200 tmcft. Rao stressed that the demand for improved irrigation facilities was a key factor in Telangana’s fight for statehood, and any threats to its water share must be addressed urgently.
