Why is Telangana Opposing the Godavari-Banakacherla Project in the CMs' Meeting?
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Synopsis
In a critical move, Telangana has urged the Centre to exclude the Godavari-Banakacherla project from the upcoming discussion with Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister. This bold stance highlights the ongoing tensions concerning river water disputes and the implications for both states. Will the Centre heed Telangana's concerns, or is a showdown looming?
Key Takeaways
- Telangana is strongly opposing the Godavari-Banakacherla project.
- Concerns about lack of approvals are central to Telangana's stance.
- The meeting aims to address inter-state water disputes.
- Pending projects in the Krishna and Godavari basins are also crucial topics.
- Effective dialogue is essential for resolving these disputes.
Hyderabad, July 15 (NationPress) - In anticipation of the upcoming meeting between the Chief Ministers of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh regarding river water disputes in Delhi on Wednesday, the Telangana government has formally communicated to the Centre that the proposed Godavari-Banakacherla project from the neighboring state should not feature on the meeting's agenda.
Telangana's administration has submitted a letter articulating its objections to the agenda set forth by the Andhra Pradesh government, which includes this controversial project.
The Centre has extended an invitation to Telangana's Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and his Andhra Pradesh counterpart, N. Chandrababu Naidu, for discussions on inter-state water disputes, with the Union Jal Shakti Minister present.
In its correspondence to Paatil, Telangana asserted that discussions regarding the Godavari-Banakacherla project are unnecessary as the project lacks official approvals. It emphasized that any dialogue concerning this project would breach relevant laws and tribunal awards.
The Chief Secretary of Telangana has reached out to the Secretary of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, advocating for a revision of the agenda.
"The agenda for the meeting should be amended to postpone any discussions on the Godavari-Banakacherla Link Project until all statutory requirements, interstate consultations, and clearances are thoroughly addressed and all objections resolved," the letter stated.
The Andhra Pradesh government has recently proposed the development of the Godavari-Banakacherla project to harness the floodwaters of the Godavari river.
Telangana has voiced strong objections to this initiative and has urged the Centre to withhold any approval for the project, as it would adversely affect projects within Telangana.
Reportedly, Andhra Pradesh has made the Godavari-Banakacherla project the single-point agenda for the Chief Ministers' meeting.
Telangana has already suggested that discussions should include the approval of its pending projects in the Krishna and Godavari basins.
Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy sent a letter to Union Minister Paatil on Monday, seeking intervention to address unresolved issues for Telangana in the Krishna and Godavari basins.
He proposed that the meeting should also cover their demand for clearance on the Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme and the Dindi Lift Irrigation Scheme.
Moreover, Telangana seeks a discussion regarding the Godavari (Inchampally)-Cauvery Link as part of the national perspective plan.
Additionally, the Telangana government is requesting discussions on its proposal to utilize 200 TMC of floodwaters from Inchampally for drinking and irrigation purposes in drought-prone areas. It has asked the Centre to allocate funding for the Inchampally project, comparable to the Polavaram project in Andhra Pradesh.
Point of View
The ongoing disputes over water resources between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh highlight the pressing need for effective inter-state dialogues and adherence to legal frameworks. It is crucial for both states to collaborate and resolve their differences amicably, ensuring sustainable water management that benefits all involved parties.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Godavari-Banakacherla project?
The Godavari-Banakacherla project is a proposed initiative by the Andhra Pradesh government aimed at utilizing the floodwaters of the Godavari river.
Why is Telangana opposing this project?
Telangana opposes the project due to concerns that it lacks the necessary approvals and could negatively impact its own water projects.
What are the key issues in the upcoming meeting?
The key issues include discussions over the Godavari-Banakacherla project, pending projects in the Krishna and Godavari basins, and requests for irrigation scheme approvals.
Who are the key figures involved in this dispute?
The key figures include Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.
What actions has Telangana taken regarding the project?
Telangana has formally written to the Centre to exclude the project from the agenda and is requesting discussions on its pending irrigation projects.
