The proposed Banakacherla reservoir project has triggered a heated political confrontation between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has openly challenged former CM K. Chandrashekar Rao to engage in a public debate over the potential consequences of the project. While Andhra Pradesh views the initiative as a step toward resolving chronic drought in the Rayalaseema region, Telangana raises concerns over water rights and inter-state resource sharing.
Project Overview
The Banakacherla project is envisioned as a major irrigation effort aimed at transforming the arid lands of Rayalaseema into cultivable zones. It includes plans to increase the capacity of both the Polavaram Right Main Canal and the Thatipudi Lift Irrigation Scheme. A critical element of the project is the proposed linkage of the Godavari and Krishna rivers through a network of lift stations and tunnels that will transport water from Bollapalli in Guntur district to the Banakacherla reservoir.
Telangana’s Objection
The Telangana government contends that the project violates the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, which outlines water-sharing agreements post-bifurcation. Officials argue that the project lacks approvals from both the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) and the Godavari River Management Board (GRMB). Telangana fears that the diversion of Godavari waters could adversely impact its existing irrigation systems and long-term water availability.
Political Stakes And Regional Impact
This project has become a politically sensitive issue. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu champions it as a strategic move to tackle Rayalaseema's persistent water shortages. Given Rayalaseema's political significance to the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), the project plays a key role in the party’s bid to strengthen its regional presence. Meanwhile, Telangana sees the move as part of a broader historical pattern of unequal water distribution, a central issue in the state's push for separation in 2014.
Historical Water-Sharing Disputes
Disputes over water sharing have long fueled tension between the two Telugu-speaking states. During Telangana’s statehood campaign, allegations were made that Andhra Pradesh unfairly benefited from shared river resources. The Banakacherla project has reopened these old wounds, with Telangana perceiving it as another effort to redirect water away from its territory.
Legal And Regulatory Concerns
As per the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, any major inter-state water project requires clearance from the designated river management boards. Telangana maintains that the Banakacherla reservoir lacks such approvals. Moreover, the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal has yet to provide clarity on the availability of surplus water, raising further questions about the legitimacy and legality of the proposed project.
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