Should Telangana’s Share in Surplus Water Be Decided First?
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Synopsis
Deputy CM Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka emphasizes the need for clarity on water allocations before new projects on the Godavari River. The ongoing tension between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh highlights the critical need for fair distribution of water resources, a cornerstone of Telangana's formation.
Key Takeaways
- Water allocation must be clarified before new projects.
- Central Government plays a key role in determining water shares.
- Political tensions arise over water resource management.
- Public protests reflect concerns about civic rights.
- Regional cooperation is essential for sustainable water use.
Visakhapatnam, Aug 17 (NationPress) Telangana's Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka asserted on Sunday that it would be both legal and equitable to initiate any new projects on the Godavari River only after the surplus water allocation for both Telugu states has been established.
He emphasized that the task of determining water shares is a responsibility of the Central Government.
During his visit to Visakhapatnam for various programs, the Deputy Chief Minister addressed the media.
The Congress leader pointed out that the formation of Telangana was primarily motivated by the need for river water. “The clarity on surplus water issues will emerge only after the completion of ongoing projects in our state and subsequent water allocations,” he stated.
In response to inquiries regarding the Godavari-Banakacherla project proposed by Andhra Pradesh, the Telangana Deputy CM expressed his concerns.
On August 15, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu defended the Godavari-Banakacherla project, asserting that it would not adversely affect the water interests of any state.
Addressing Telangana's objections to the project, he remarked that there was no need for concern.
“We have resolved to redirect Godavari waste water from Polavaram to Banakacherla to transform Rayalaseema into a thriving agrarian region. We will utilize water that would otherwise go to waste by flowing into the sea,” he declared in his Independence Day address.
CM Naidu highlighted that, as a lower-riparian state, Andhra Pradesh must endure the impacts of floods. “When floods happen, if upstream states release water, we, as the downstream state, face the losses and hardships. Why should there be objections to utilizing the same flood water?” he questioned.
Simultaneously, Telangana's Deputy Chief Minister also took part in a protest organized by the Congress party in Andhra Pradesh regarding ‘vote chori’.
Dy CM Vikramarka claimed that the removal of voters equates to an infringement on civil rights, stating that the Constitution guarantees voting rights to every citizen.
He accused the BJP of benefiting from the removal of legitimate voters and the inclusion of fraudulent ones in the voter list.
Vikramarka noted that the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has publicly exposed vote theft with substantial evidence, questioning the actions of the Modi government.
He asserted that despite this situation, the attempts by the Election Commission to favor the BJP pose a significant threat to democracy.
Furthermore, he claimed that Rahul Gandhi's yatra is receiving overwhelming support from both political parties and the public.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that water rights and resources are crucial issues for regional stability and cooperation. The ongoing discussions and disputes between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh underscore the need for a fair and equitable solution that respects the rights of both states. Ensuring clarity on water allocations is not just a legal matter; it is a vital aspect of democratic governance and civic rights.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue regarding the Godavari River?
The primary concern is the equitable distribution of surplus water between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh before any new projects are initiated.
Why is the Central Government involved?
The responsibility of determining water shares lies with the Central Government, which is crucial for resolving disputes between the two states.
What was CM Naidu's stance on the Godavari-Banakacherla project?
CM Naidu defended the project, asserting it will not harm the water interests of any state and aims to utilize waste water effectively.
