Telangana Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy on Wednesday announced that the state government will initiate legal proceedings to stop Andhra Pradesh’s Godavari-Banakacherla Link project, calling it “illegal” and harmful to Telangana’s water interests.
In a high-level review meeting with irrigation officials at Jala Saudha, the minister issued a series of directives focused on protecting Telangana’s water rights and expediting key infrastructure projects. He directed officials to prepare a comprehensive legal roadmap and ensure the state’s case is strongly presented.
The move follows Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy and Uttam Reddy’s recent meeting with Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil, where they opposed the project and urged the Centre to reject its pre-feasibility report. The Union Minister assured that no approval has been granted yet and agreed to convene an Apex Council meeting soon.
Key Highlights from the Review Meeting:
- A detailed presentation on the Banakacherla project will be held at Praja Bhavan on June 30, highlighting its origins during the previous BRS regime and the political background behind Andhra Pradesh’s proposal.
- The Telangana Irrigation Department will induct two military experts—General Harpal Singh and Colonel Parikshit Mehra—to oversee tunnel and irrigation-related works, drawing on their experience with the Rohtang and Zojila tunnel projects.
The minister reviewed the National Dam Safety Authority’s (NDSA) findings on damaged barrages at Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla, and ordered urgent implementation of recommendations. He demanded weekly progress reports and instructed that restoration must follow CWC guidelines.
Major Project Updates:
- Singur Canal: Tender process underway; formal agreements to be signed soon.
- Dindi Project: Land acquisition to be fast-tracked.
- SLBC (Srisailam Left Bank Canal): Minister ordered a LIDAR survey, with focus on speed, quality, and technology. Daily reviews of project progress have been mandated.
- Devadula (Package-3) and Sitarama projects: Officials instructed to expedite work and restructure budget allocations if needed.
Administrative Reforms:
- Uttam Reddy assured that promotions and transfers within the department—some pending for over 18 years—will be resolved.
- He specifically addressed the grievances of Assistant Executive Engineers, promising prompt elevation to Deputy Executive Engineer roles.
Desiltation and Water Storage:
- Highlighting that many reservoirs have lost up to 25% of their capacity, the minister stressed the urgency of desiltation efforts. He instructed that Nagarjuna Sagar desiltation begin immediately and that Andhra Pradesh be formally notified.
Accountability and Monitoring:
- Weekly reviews will be held to monitor project progress.
- The minister warned of strict action against delays, ensuring both operations and maintenance continue without financial or administrative hindrance.
Uttam Kumar Reddy concluded the meeting by reiterating the government’s commitment to fast-tracking irrigation development and safeguarding Telangana’s water resources through all possible means.