Did Telangana Achieve a Win After EAC Denied Clearance for Andhra Pradesh's Project?
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Synopsis
Telangana celebrates a victory as the EAC denies approval for Andhra Pradesh's Polavaram–Banakacherla Link Project. The state's leaders assert their commitment to protecting water rights, raising questions about inter-state water agreements and environmental concerns.
Key Takeaways
- EAC denies clearance for the Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project.
- Telangana claims victory in safeguarding its water rights.
- Environmental assessments are crucial for inter-state projects.
- Legal frameworks like the GWDT must be adhered to.
- Further consultations with the CWC are necessary.
Hyderabad, July 1 (NationPress) The Congress-led government in Telangana has heralded a significant achievement in its campaign to protect the state's interests as the Central Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has declined to approve the proposed Polavaram–Banakacherla Link Project from neighboring Andhra Pradesh.
N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, Telangana's Irrigation Minister, expressed that the efforts of the Telangana administration have yielded positive results, as the EAC of the Environment Ministry determined that it cannot provide environmental clearances for the Polavaram-Banakacherla initiative.
He highlighted that the EAC took into account the letters sent by him, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, and Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy to the central authorities.
During a meeting convened in Delhi on Monday, the EAC made it clear that it would not authorize the Polavaram-Banakacherla project due to numerous objections raised.
The committee asserted that an examination of the Godavari Water Dispute Tribunal (GWDT) award is essential before granting any permissions. It emphasized the necessity of consulting the Central Water Commission (CWC) for environmental clearances.
Numerous complaints submitted to the EAC alleged that the project contravenes the 1980 GWDT decision, raising concerns regarding potential submergence in adjacent states like Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
On June 19, Revanth Reddy and Uttam Kumar Reddy met with Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil in Delhi, urging him to halt the Banakacherla initiative.
They contended that the Banakacherla project undermines natural justice and Telangana's interests, accusing Andhra Pradesh of violating the GWDT and the State Reorganisation Act.
They appealed to Minister Patil to reject the pre-feasibility report concerning the Godavari-Banakacherla project, advocating for justice and truth to prevail.
The Chief Minister brought to the Union Minister's notice the various concerns voiced 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.
Revanth Reddy informed Patil that Andhra Pradesh's claims regarding the Banakacherla project being based on Godavari floodwaters are unfounded, as the 1980 GWDT does not mention floodwaters or surplus waters.
Meanwhile, Mahesh Kumar Goud, president of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC), stated that Telangana has firmly defended its water rights by ensuring adherence to inter-state water agreements regarding Banakacherla.
In a post on 'X', he noted that while reviewing the Polavaram–Banakacherla Link Project, the EAC raised critical concerns regarding inter-state implications and possible violations of the 1980 Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal Award.
The Committee underscored the importance of prior consultation with the CWC to evaluate water availability and address legal and jurisdictional challenges. Consequently, the EAC has returned the proposal, advising the proponent to secure necessary clearances before moving forward.
"This represents a pivotal moment in Telangana's assertive approach to safeguarding its rightful share of river waters," remarked the state Congress chief.
Point of View
The recent denial of clearance for the Polavaram–Banakacherla Project highlights the ongoing complexities of inter-state water disputes in India. It underscores the need for rigorous environmental assessments and adherence to legal frameworks like the GWDT. As both states navigate these challenges, the focus must remain on sustainable water management and equitable resource distribution.
NationPress
01/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project?
The Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project is a proposed water project by Andhra Pradesh aimed at linking various water resources, which has faced opposition from Telangana due to concerns over inter-state water rights.
Why did the EAC deny clearance for the project?
The EAC denied clearance due to significant environmental concerns, objections raised by Telangana, and the need for further consultation regarding inter-state water agreements.
What are the implications of this decision for Telangana?
This decision is seen as a victory for Telangana, reinforcing its claims to water rights and emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal frameworks governing inter-state water disputes.
How did Telangana officials respond to the clearance denial?
Telangana officials expressed satisfaction with the EAC's decision, highlighting their commitment to protecting the state's water interests and ensuring compliance with inter-state agreements.
What are the next steps for Andhra Pradesh regarding this project?
Andhra Pradesh will need to reassess the project, address the concerns raised by the EAC, and secure necessary clearances from relevant authorities before proceeding further.
