Banakacherla Reservoir Controversy
The Banakacherla reservoir project has ignited a fierce political debate between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Telangana’s Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has challenged former Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao to a public debate regarding the implications of this project. The project aims to address drought conditions in Andhra Pradesh’s Rayalaseema region but raises concerns for Telangana regarding water rights and resource management.
Overview of the Banakacherla Project
The Banakacherla reservoir project is designed to transform the drought-prone Rayalaseema region into fertile land. It involves enhancing the capacity of the Polavaram Right Main Canal and the Thatipudi Lift Irrigation Scheme. The project proposes to link the Godavari River with the Krishna River. Water will be lifted from Bollapalli in Guntur district to the Banakacherla reservoir through a series of lift stations and tunnels.
Telangana’s Opposition to the Project
Telangana officials argue that the Banakacherla project violates the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act of 2014. They claim it has not received necessary approvals from the Krishna River Management Board and the Godavari River Management Board. Telangana is concerned that diverting Godavari waters undermines its water security and threatens existing water projects.
Political Implications of the Project
The project is politically charged. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu promotes it as a solution for Rayalaseema’s water crisis. This region is crucial for the Telugu Desam Party, which seeks to regain influence there. Conversely, Telangana views the project as a continuation of historical injustices regarding water distribution, stemming from its separation from Andhra Pradesh in 2014.
Historical Context of Water Sharing
Water-sharing has long been a contentious issue between the two states. During the agitation for Telangana’s statehood, claims were made that water resources were disproportionately allocated to Andhra Pradesh. The Banakacherla project revives these grievances, as it is perceived as an attempt to divert resources away from Telangana once again.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act of 2014 established guidelines for water distribution between the two states. Telangana argues that the Banakacherla project contravenes these guidelines. The Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal has not clarified the extent of surplus water, raising questions about the legality of the project.
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