In a clear stance, Telangana’s Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy has announced that his government will never agree to the construction of the Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar link project proposed by the neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh. During an informal conversation with media personnel on January 5, Reddy expressed his strong opposition to the proposals, asserting that they directly violate the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal award of 1980 and interstate water regulations.
Reddy’s remarks come after a letter regarding the project was shown by former minister Harish Rao, indicating that the Central Water Commission (CWC) had provided information on the matter but not given approval for the project. The CWC has clarified that the letter was issued solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement of the Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar link project by the commission.
The ongoing dispute over the Rayalaseema Project, which involves the sharing of water resources between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, has been a point of contention in recent years. The Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar link project, if implemented, would potentially impact the flow of water from the Godavari River, a critical resource for both states.
With this latest development, it is expected that discussions between the two states will continue in an attempt to reach a resolution that respects the interests and rights of both parties, according to established regulations and the 1980 award. The Telangana government remains steadfast in its position against the proposed project, with Irrigation Minister Reddy emphasizing his commitment to protecting the state’s water resources and upholding the principles set forth by the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal award.
