Telangana Urges Halt to Andhra Pradesh’s Controversial Water Project

Telangana has intensified its opposition to the Andhra Pradesh government’s proposed Godavari–Banakacherla link project, warning that the diversion of river water could disrupt existing inter-state water-sharing agreements and lead to serious environmental repercussions. In a firm letter directed to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, Telangana’s Irrigation Secretary Rahul Bojja called for an immediate halt to all approvals related to the project.

Bojja highlighted potential violations of the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal (GWDT) Award and the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, as critical reasons for the state’s objections. The project aims to divert 200 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of floodwaters from the Polavaram reservoir to the Rayalaseema region through Banakacherla.

Concerns have mounted within Telangana regarding the impact of this diversion on the Polavaram’s gate operations, potentially increasing the overall volume diverted to 650 TMC. This figure significantly exceeds the 449.78 TMC limit sanctioned by the Central Water Commission (CWC). Telangana officials warn that such an excess could lead to backwater submergence in upstream areas, posing a substantial threat to the ecological stability of the region.

Bojja underscored that Telangana’s consent is legally required for any inter-basin transfer involving the Godavari River. He urged the Centre to suspend all approvals until Andhra Pradesh secures necessary clearances from the CWC, the Technical Advisory Committee, and the Apex Council. The communication also requested a comprehensive environmental impact assessment, a reassessment of Polavaram’s operational protocols, and measures to protect Telangana’s share of floodwaters.

The letter accused Andhra Pradesh of advancing the project without proper consultation with co-riparian states, characterizing the approach as procedurally flawed. This firm stance from Telangana highlights a growing rift between the two states regarding river water management, raising the possibility of legal and political disputes if the project proceeds without mutual agreement.

With the stakes high, the situation underscores the delicate balance of inter-state relationships in water resource management in India. The outcome of this dispute may set important precedents for future projects that involve shared water resources, highlighting the necessity for collaboration and consensus among states.