Will the Banakacherla project affect Telangana's interests?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a recent statement, Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu assured that the Godavari-Banakacherla link project would not harm Telangana's interests, countering claims from Telangana leaders. This article explores the benefits of the project and the ongoing debates surrounding water rights and inter-state cooperation.
Key Takeaways
- Godavari-Banakacherla project aims to utilize surplus water.
- Both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana can benefit from it.
- Environmental clearances are still pending.
- Naidu emphasizes cooperation over conflict.
- P4 initiative focuses on poverty alleviation.
Amaravati, July 3 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, emphasized on Thursday that the Godavari-Banakacherla link project will not adversely impact the interests of Telangana.
Speaking to reporters in Kuppam, located in Chittoor district, he rejected the claims made by the Telangana government asserting that the project would be detrimental to their interests.
He affirmed that the initiative does not pose any risk to any state, and noted that misinformation is being circulated regarding the project.
Naidu highlighted that the Godavari River is currently wasting around 2,000 TMC of water into the sea, and its proper utilization could benefit both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
He countered allegations from Telangana leaders that he has opposed their irrigation projects and asserted that during his tenure as Chief Minister of united Andhra Pradesh, he initiated numerous projects in Telangana. "I have never been against the construction of projects by Telangana on the Godavari," he stated.
According to the Chief Minister, both upper and lower riparian states have the right to utilize Godavari waters.
The Central Environmental Expert Committee (EAC) recently declined to grant environmental clearance for this project due to objections from Telangana.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy have submitted letters to the central government urging them to halt the project.
The EAC remarked that the Godavari Water Dispute Tribunal (GWDT) award needs to be reviewed before any permission is granted and stressed the necessity to consult the Central Water Commission (CWC) for environmental clearances.
Telangana leaders have accused the Banakacherla project of violating natural justice and contradicting the interests of Telangana, stating that Andhra Pradesh is breaching the GWDT award and the State Reorganisation Act.
Chandrababu Naidu also criticized the YSR Congress Party for their opposition to the P4 initiative introduced by the coalition government.
He stated that the core aim of this program is poverty alleviation and pointed out that those who exploited government resources in the past are now criticizing a constructive initiative.
Naidu urged people to contribute positively to society, reminiscing about the Janmabhoomi initiative he launched earlier to inspire societal contribution, and how he has now introduced the P4 program.
He mentioned that individuals who were supported by him in the past to establish wealth in the United States are now stepping up as mentors under the P4 initiative.
Naidu also revealed that a family has taken the initiative to support the underprivileged in Timmarajupalli village in Kuppam, and expressed his desire to see a similar spirit of generosity from everyone.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the complexities surrounding inter-state water disputes. While Andhra Pradesh asserts that the Godavari-Banakacherla project will not adversely affect Telangana, ongoing discussions and environmental assessments indicate a need for careful consideration. It is essential to prioritize collaboration and equitable resource management to foster harmonious relations between the states.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Godavari-Banakacherla link project?
The Godavari-Banakacherla link project aims to utilize the surplus water from the Godavari River, which currently goes unused, for irrigation and other purposes in both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Why are Telangana leaders opposing this project?
Telangana leaders argue that the project violates the GWDT award and could negatively impact their state's water rights and interests.
What did the Central Environmental Expert Committee decide?
The EAC refused to grant environmental clearance for the project, citing the need for further examination of the GWDT award and consultation with the Central Water Commission.
What is the P4 initiative mentioned by Naidu?
The P4 initiative is a program launched by Naidu aimed at poverty alleviation and encouraging societal contributions from individuals and families.
How does the Godavari-Banakacherla project benefit both states?
Utilizing the Godavari River's water could provide essential irrigation support and other benefits to both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, fostering economic development.
