Is Telangana CM Ready to Discuss the Banakacherla Project with Andhra Leader?
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Synopsis
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy is prepared to engage in discussions with Andhra Pradesh's N. Chandrababu Naidu regarding the controversial Godavari-Banakacherla project. Reddy emphasizes the potential for resolving disputes through dialogue, and stresses that both states have equal rights to the river's resources. This situation raises critical questions about water rights and cooperative governance.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana Chief Minister is open to discussions with Andhra Pradesh.
- The Godavari-Banakacherla project is controversial and needs dialogue.
- Equal rights to river waters are claimed by both states.
- The Telangana Cabinet will address this issue soon.
- Justice and adherence to the GWDT award are crucial.
Hyderabad, June 20 (NationPress) Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed his willingness to engage in discussions with his Andhra Pradesh counterpart N. Chandrababu Naidu regarding the proposed Godavari-Banakacherla project initiated by Andhra Pradesh.
In a statement to the media in Delhi, Reddy emphasized that both Telugu states can effectively resolve their disputes through dialogue.
He mentioned that the controversy arose after Andhra Pradesh submitted a Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) to the Centre. He noted, "Had there been prior discussions with Telangana before submitting the PFR, the controversy could have been avoided."
According to Reddy, both Chief Ministers could address all issues related to various projects, suggesting they could engage in discussions for up to four days.
He firmly believes that all disputes regarding the sharing of river waters between the two states can be settled amicably through conversations.
Regarding Andhra Pradesh's assertion of its right to use Godavari waters as a lower riparian state, Reddy stated that Telangana holds equal rights.
He highlighted that only the Polavaram project has received approval under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, pointing out that Banakacherla is a linked project and the Centre must consider Telangana's objections.
Reddy mentioned that Banakacherla is part of a scheme to connect the Godavari and Penna rivers, aimed at utilizing 400 TMC of water over a span of 86 days.
He asserted that Telangana is entitled to use 968 TMC of Godavari water, yet the state has not been given the opportunity to access its rightful share.
The Telangana Cabinet is set to deliberate on this matter in its meeting on June 23, with Reddy stating that his government will take the initiative to invite Andhra Pradesh for discussions.
On Thursday, Reddy, alongside Telangana Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy, met with Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil to request a halt to the Banakacherla project.
They argued that Banakacherla undermines natural justice and is detrimental to Telangana's interests, claiming that Andhra Pradesh is infringing upon the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal (GWDT) award and the State Reorganisation Act.
Reddy urged Patil to reject the pre-feasibility report for the Godavari-Banakacherla project and ensure that justice prevails.
He brought to the Union Minister’s attention the various concerns raised by the people and farmers of Telangana regarding the handling of approvals for the Banakacherla project by the Union Finance Ministry and the Environment Ministry. Reddy pointed out that while Andhra Pradesh claims the project is based on flood waters of Godavari, there is no mention of flood or surplus waters in the GWDT-1980.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the importance of dialogue in resolving inter-state disputes. The willingness of Telangana's Chief Minister to engage in discussions with Andhra Pradesh reflects a commitment to cooperative governance. Both states must navigate their complex relationship with respect to shared resources, and fostering communication is a crucial step towards sustainable solutions. NationPress supports initiatives that promote collaboration and understanding between regional leaders.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Godavari-Banakacherla project?
The Godavari-Banakacherla project is an initiative proposed by Andhra Pradesh aimed at utilizing Godavari river waters for various purposes. It has sparked controversy between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh regarding water rights and resource allocation.
Why is there controversy over this project?
The controversy stems from Andhra Pradesh submitting a Pre-Feasibility Report to the Centre without consulting Telangana. This has led to disputes over water sharing rights and project approvals.
What are the rights of Telangana regarding water usage?
Telangana asserts its right to utilize 968 TMC of Godavari water, claiming that it has not been afforded the opportunity to access its allotted share.
How can disputes between the two states be resolved?
The Chief Ministers of both states can engage in discussions to address their disputes, as emphasized by Telangana's Chief Minister, who believes that dialogue can lead to amicable resolutions.
What actions is Telangana's government taking in response?
Telangana's government plans to discuss the issue in a Cabinet meeting and intends to invite Andhra Pradesh to engage in talks to resolve the ongoing disputes.
