The Telangana government, under the leadership of Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy, has taken a definitive and unwavering stance against the proposed Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar link project. The minister declared that the state has consistently voiced its opposition across all relevant platforms, arguing the project infringes upon critical inter-state water-sharing agreements.
Formal Objections and Interstate Support
To solidify its position, the Telangana administration has dispatched formal communications to multiple central authorities. These include the Godavari River Management Board (GRMB), Polavaram Project Authority, Central Water Commission (CWC), Union Ministry of Environment & Forest, and the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
The core argument presented is that the project contravenes established pacts, most notably the 1980 Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal (GWDT) award. Minister Reddy, in an informal media interaction on Monday, expressed confidence, stating, "All of them agree with our viewpoint." He further revealed that Telangana is not alone in its concerns, with the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka also raising strong objections to the project.
Clarifications and Political Critique
The minister addressed claims made by the opposition BRS party, specifically clarifying a letter referenced by BRS leader T Harish Rao. Uttam Kumar Reddy asserted that the document was merely an internal communication between directorates of the CWC and should not be misconstrued as an official approval of the project by the Commission.
He also launched a critique against the previous BRS government, accusing it of mishandling the state's water resources and thereby causing significant losses. In contrast, he reiterated the Congress government's firm resolve to counter the plans of the Andhra Pradesh government to divert Godavari floodwaters through this link project.
Legal Battle Intensifies in Supreme Court
The conflict is now poised for a crucial legal showdown. The Telangana government has enlisted the expertise of senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi to present robust arguments before the Supreme Court. The apex court has adjourned the hearing to next Monday, advising the petitioners to file a suit petition instead of a writ petition.
"We will again seek a stay order from the Supreme Court next Monday," Minister Reddy affirmed, adding his intention to attend the upcoming hearing in person. He mentioned plans for another strategy meeting with legal counsel in the coming days to refine their case.
Shifting focus to another contentious issue, the minister highlighted the state's role in halting the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme (RLIS) in Andhra Pradesh. He credited Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and the state government for being instrumental in stopping the RLIS work, noting that the cessation occurred only after the Congress government assumed power in Telangana.
