What Did the Telangana and Andhra CMs Discuss in Delhi?
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Synopsis
In a crucial meeting in New Delhi, the Chief Ministers of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, alongside Union Minister C.R. Paatil, addressed the pressing issues surrounding river water management between the two states. This encounter is pivotal for resolving long-standing disputes regarding water sharing.
Key Takeaways
- Chief Ministers of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh met to discuss river water issues.
- Objections were raised regarding the Godavari-Banakacherla project.
- Discussions aim to ensure equitable water distribution.
- Importance of inter-state cooperation emphasized.
- Surplus water utilization highlighted as a key issue.
New Delhi, July 16 (NationPress) The Chief Ministers of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh convened in New Delhi on Wednesday, alongside Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil, to deliberate on inter-state river water matters.
The Union Minister engaged in discussions with Telangana's Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and his counterpart from Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu.
The meeting, organized by the Jal Shakti Ministry, aimed to address challenges related to the waters of the Godavari and Krishna rivers.
Telangana's Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy, along with Nimmala Rama Naidu, the Irrigation Minister from Andhra Pradesh, along with Chief Secretaries and Irrigation Secretaries from both states, participated in the discussions at the Jal Shakti Bhavan.
However, the agenda of the meeting was clouded by an objection from the Telangana government regarding Andhra Pradesh's proposal to discuss the Godavari-Banakacherla project.
On Tuesday, Telangana communicated to the Centre that the Godavari-Banakacherla project, proposed by Andhra Pradesh, should not be included in the meeting's agenda.
Telangana asserted in its correspondence to Union Minister Paatil that discussions on this project are unwarranted as it lacks necessary approvals.
The state emphasized that any deliberation on the project would infringe upon established laws and tribunal decisions.
Telangana's Chief Secretary K. Ramakrishna Rao sent a letter to the Secretary of the Jal Shakti Ministry, Debashree Mukherjee, requesting a revision of the meeting's agenda.
"The agenda should be revised to postpone discussions on the Godavari-Banakacherla Link Project until all statutory requirements and interstate consultations are fulfilled, and all objections are resolved," the letter stated.
The Andhra Pradesh government recently proposed the construction of the Godavari-Banakacherla project to harness floodwaters from the Godavari river.
Telangana has raised concerns, urging the Centre not to sanction the project as it could adversely affect projects within Telangana.
During a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Tuesday, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu discussed the Polavaram-Banakacherla link project, highlighting its importance for supplying water to drought-stricken regions.
He stated that the project aims to reroute 200 TMC of floodwater from Polavaram to the Banakacherla regulator located in Kurnool district.
Chief Minister Naidu asserted that if this interlinking initiative is completed, it will provide substantial benefits to the drought-prone Rayalaseema area.
He pointed out that even after catering to the needs of both upper and lower riparian states, surplus water from the Godavari river flows consistently for approximately 90 to 120 days.
CM Naidu emphasized that, as the last state along the river's path, Andhra Pradesh has the rightful claim to fully utilize this excess water from the Godavari.
Point of View
It is vital to note that the ongoing discussions between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh highlight the intricate balance of regional water management. Both states must engage in constructive conversations to ensure equitable distribution and sustainable use of water resources, which are critical for agricultural and economic stability.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of the meeting between the Telangana and Andhra Pradesh CMs?
The primary focus was to address inter-state river water issues, particularly concerning the Godavari and Krishna rivers.
Why did Telangana object to the Godavari-Banakacherla project?
Telangana objected because the project lacks necessary approvals and any discussions would violate existing laws and tribunal awards.
What is the significance of the Polavaram-Banakacherla link project?
This project is critical for supplying water to drought-affected areas in Andhra Pradesh, particularly the Rayalaseema region.
Who attended the meeting alongside the Chief Ministers?
Key participants included Union Minister C.R. Paatil, Irrigation Ministers from both states, and Chief Secretaries.
What is the expected outcome of these discussions?
The goal is to reach an agreement on water sharing and to resolve disputes amicably.
