Revanth Reddy Calls for Dialogue on Krishna, Godavari Water Disputes
Hyderabad, Feb. 24 (Maxim News) : Decades-old disputes between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh over sharing of Krishna and Godavari river waters remain unresolved. However, experts suggest that permanent solutions are possible only through dialogue, not confrontation.
Against this backdrop, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy took to X (formerly Twitter) and reiterated his government’s stand.
Referring to Devadula, he said that when it comes to Krishna and Godavari water sharing, the state prefers resolution over dispute. He added that the government believes in discussions rather than prolonged conflict.
The Chief Minister stated that ensuring drinking water for every citizen and irrigation water for every acre is the primary goal of his government.
During his recent visit to the Devadula project, Revanth Reddy made key remarks on inter-state water disputes. He said differences between states over Krishna River and Godavari River waters should be resolved in a friendly atmosphere rather than through confrontation.
While assuring a firm stand to protect Telangana’s interests, he emphasized that the government would prioritize harmony and negotiations.
Water disputes between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana mainly revolve around the sharing of Krishna and Godavari waters.
Under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, a temporary allocation of 512 TMC to Andhra Pradesh and 299 TMC to Telangana was made. However, Telangana has been demanding an equal share from the beginning.
The Krishna water dispute is being examined by the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal-II (KWDT-II) headed by Justice Brijesh Kumar. Telangana has sought project-wise allocations.
Disagreements also persist over the management of Srisailam Dam and Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. Recently, the Centre directed that these projects come under the purview of the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB).
Though water availability in the Godavari is relatively higher, disputes continue over major irrigation projects.
Andhra Pradesh has raised concerns that Telangana’s Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project may impact downstream flows.
Similarly, Telangana has objected to the height and submergence impact of Andhra Pradesh’s Polavaram Project.
Recently, Telangana also lodged a complaint with the Union Jal Shakti Ministry over the proposed Polavaram–Nallamala Sagar project.
It remains to be seen how the Andhra Pradesh government will respond to Revanth Reddy’s latest remarks on inter-state water issues. (Maxim News)
