Telangana Pushes for Faster Environmental Approvals for Crucial Water Projects
In a significant move to address water needs in the state, Transport and BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar of Telangana met with Union Forest and Environment Secretary Tanmay Kumar in New Delhi on Monday. The high-level meeting focused on expediting the environmental clearance process for several key irrigation projects that are vital for the state's agricultural and drinking water security.
Urgent Plea for Gouravelli and Other Projects
During the discussions, Minister Prabhakar specifically highlighted the need for swift approval for the Gouravelli irrigation project and other similar initiatives. He presented a detailed explanation to Secretary Kumar, emphasizing that granting these clearances would have an immediate and substantial positive impact. The minister argued that the projects are not just about irrigation but are crucial for enhancing drinking water supply across the state and providing reliable water facilities for Telangana's farmers.
Assurance from the Centre
In response to the state's request, Union Secretary Tanmay Kumar provided a positive assurance. He committed to seeking a legal opinion on the matter to facilitate a faster decision-making process. The meeting with Secretary Kumar was necessitated as the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, was on a foreign tour at the time. This proactive engagement underscores the state government's urgency in moving these critical infrastructure projects forward.
The outcome of this meeting is being closely watched, as the speedy implementation of these irrigation projects is expected to significantly boost water security and support the agricultural community in Telangana.
