Effective water resource management is vital for Telangana, especially in light of ongoing disputes over water allocation with Andhra Pradesh. To address these challenges, Telangana’s Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy, has emphasized presenting robust arguments before the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal-II (KWDT-II). This article explores the key strategies, legislative considerations, and actions required to ensure equitable water allocation for Telangana.
Understanding the Legal Framework: ISRWD Act and AP Reorganization Act
Water allocation disputes in India are governed by the Inter-State River Water Disputes (ISRWD) Act of 1956. Section 3 of this Act plays a pivotal role in resolving conflicts between states sharing river resources. Additionally, Section 89 of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act (APRA) of 2014 mandates project-wise water distribution between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. These legal provisions underscore the importance of presenting a compelling case before the tribunal.
The Apex Council, established under the APRA, has also recommended that water distribution adhere to the guidelines outlined in Section 3. Despite Andhra Pradesh’s appeal to the Supreme Court regarding KWDT-II’s terms of reference, no stay has been granted, enabling Telangana to continue its advocacy.
Chief Minister’s Review Meeting: Setting the Agenda
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy recently conducted a comprehensive review of the Irrigation Department at his official residence in Delhi. Key attendees included Telangana’s Minister of Irrigation, Minister Sridhar Babu, Principal Secretary Shanti Kumari, Advisor Adityanath Das, and other senior officials. The meeting focused on formulating strategies to address water disputes and advancing ongoing projects.
Addressing Unauthorized Projects: The Godavari-Banaka Charla Link
One of the critical issues discussed was Andhra Pradesh’s unauthorized execution of the Godavari-Banaka Charla link project. Telangana’s CM directed officials to draft formal objections to Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, and the Godavari and Krishna River Management Boards (GRMB and KRMB). The objections will emphasize that any project on shared rivers must comply with the AP Reorganization Act, which requires prior notification to GRMB, KRMB, and the neighboring state.
Polavaram Submergence Study: A Priority for Telangana
The potential submergence caused by the Polavaram project poses a significant threat to Telangana’s Bhadrachalam region. To address this, the Chief Minister has directed the Irrigation Department to expedite a detailed study through IIT Hyderabad. Completing this study within the stipulated timeframe is crucial to safeguarding the region’s interests and mitigating adverse impacts.
Expediting Key Projects: A Vision for Sustainable Growth
The Sammakka-Saralamma Barrage and the Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme are pivotal projects for Telangana’s water security and agricultural growth. The Chief Minister has urged officials to fast-track approvals and ensure timely implementation. These initiatives are expected to bolster the state’s irrigation infrastructure and enhance water availability for farming communities.
Collaborative Efforts: A Unified Approach
Telangana’s strategy involves collaboration between government officials, legal experts, and academic institutions. By leveraging insights from the Irrigation Department and technical expertise from institutions like IIT Hyderabad, the state aims to present evidence-backed arguments before KWDT-II. This approach underscores the importance of data-driven decision-making in resolving inter-state water disputes.
Conclusion: Securing Telangana’s Water Rights
Telangana’s proactive measures reflect its commitment to ensuring equitable water allocation and protecting its resources. By adhering to legal frameworks, addressing unauthorized projects, and expediting critical initiatives, the state is well-positioned to advocate for its rights. As the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal-II deliberates on the matter, Telangana’s strong arguments and strategic planning will play a decisive role in shaping the outcome.
With a focus on sustainable development and inter-state cooperation, Telangana continues to prioritize its water resources as a cornerstone of its economic and agricultural growth.