Will Telangana Strongly Oppose the Expansion of Polavaram in SC?
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Synopsis
In a bid to protect its water rights, Telangana is set to challenge the expansion of the Polavaram project in the Supreme Court. This move emphasizes the state's commitment to safeguarding its interests against Andhra Pradesh's initiatives.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana is committed to protecting its water rights.
- The state is challenging the expansion of the Polavaram project in court.
- Legal experts are engaged to strengthen Telangana's case.
- Concerns about environmental impact and legal compliance have been raised.
- Telangana demands adherence to the original project design.
Hyderabad, Jan 4 (NationPress) Emphasizing its commitment to safeguard its rightful share of Godavari river waters, the Telangana government is preparing to present a robust case in the Supreme Court against the expansion of the Polavaram project initiated by Andhra Pradesh.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, along with Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, engaged in discussions with esteemed legal experts on Sunday to counter the proposed Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar project on the Godavari river.
Recently, the state government has approached the Supreme Court to contest the project. The writ petition submitted is set for a hearing in the apex court.
The Chief Minister and the Irrigation Minister consulted with senior Supreme Court advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi in Mumbai, instructing legal representatives to formulate compelling arguments for the state's defense.
Officials from the irrigation department have been notified to prepare all necessary documentation and evidence, as per a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
The Telangana government recently filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court seeking to halt ongoing expansion activities by the Andhra Pradesh government that aim to link Polavaram with Banakacharla or Nallamala Sagar without securing essential statutory approvals.
The petition has requested the Supreme Court to immediately order the Polavaram Project Authority to cease these activities, citing various legal and procedural issues. It explicitly asserts that the Polavaram project must be executed strictly according to the originally sanctioned design, and any expansion efforts are not legally sanctioned.
The petition also expressed concerns regarding the Central government reviewing the pre-feasibility reports of the Nallamala Sagar project without considering Telangana’s objections. The state demands precise directives to the Central Water Commission, the Ministry of Jal Shakti, and the Godavari River Management Board in this context.
Additionally, it highlighted that the Andhra Pradesh government is continuing its preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) in contravention of Central Water Commission guidelines, requesting an immediate cessation of these actions.
The petition also sought instructions to deny any environmental clearances and to ensure that the Centre does not provide any financial support for the proposed expansion projects by Andhra Pradesh.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the intricate balance between states in resource management. The ongoing legal challenges highlight the necessity for equitable distribution of water resources, ensuring that all parties are heard and respected.
NationPress
12/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Polavaram project?
The Polavaram project is a multi-purpose irrigation project in Andhra Pradesh, aimed at providing irrigation, hydroelectric power, and flood control.
Why is Telangana opposing the project?
Telangana is opposing the project because it believes that the expansion infringes on its rightful share of Godavari river waters.
What legal actions has Telangana taken?
Telangana has filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court seeking to halt the expansion of the Polavaram project by Andhra Pradesh.
What are the main concerns raised in the petition?
The petition raises concerns about legal and procedural violations, lack of necessary approvals, and environmental clearances related to the project.
What does Telangana seek from the Supreme Court?
Telangana seeks an immediate order to stop the expansion works and demands that the project adheres to its originally approved design.
