Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has issued key instructions regarding water projects being developed or proposed by Andhra Pradesh. On Saturday, Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy and Advisor Adityanath attended a high-level meeting with officials of the Irrigation Department whose agenda revolved around protecting Telangana’s interests.
Polavaram Project: concerns for Telangana
CM Revanth Reddy underscored the fact that the potential impact of Polavaram project should be estimated upon Telangana. Officials are told to seek coordination with IIT Hyderabad in conducting the detailed study with the comprehensive report submission within one month. In this regard, a special officer is to be designated to coordinate with IIT Hyderabad.
The study will also look into the risks to the Bhadrachalam temple, which faced severe flooding in 2022 when an inflow of 27 lakh cusecs of water caused it. Officials brought this issue to the Chief Minister’s notice, pointing out the need for preventive measures.
Objections to Banakacharla Project
The Chief Minister also expressed concerns over the proposed Banakacharla project of Andhra Pradesh, which, according to Telangana officials, does not have the necessary clearances. They said that though the Andhra Pradesh government recently presented the project, it has not sought proper permissions.
CM Revanth instructed officials to formally communicate Telangana’s objections to Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Secretary. He also advised that, if required, the matter should be taken to the Godavari River Management Board and the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti to safeguard Telangana’s water rights and address any potential conflicts.
