KCR Lashes Out At AP Government, Opposes New Krishna Lift Irrigation Scheme

Andhra Pradesh Government decided to construct a new Lift Irrigation project to lift 3 TMC of water from the Srisailam project.  The State Government recently issued a GO regarding the same.

On the 11th of May, K. Chandrashekar Rao, the Chief Minister of Telangana opposed the decision of Andhra Pradesh Government to construct a new lift irrigation scheme.

The new scheme would lift Krishna river water from Srisailam Project, which would affect the interest of Telangana as it connects Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.   It is also the fourth biggest river in terms of water inflow and river basins area.

KCR said, “Srisailam project is A.P., and Telangana state’s combined project. Water from these projects should be utilised by both the States.  But the AP Government without even consulting the Telangana state has decided to lift water from Srisailam project and issued a Government Order (GO) in this regard.  This is highly objectionable.  If Krishna water is diverted by the AP government, then united Palamuru, Nalgonda, Rangareddy districts will face water crisis for both drinking and agriculture purposes. Hence, we will file a complaint with the KRMB and seek directions to stop the project.”

Mr. Rao, discussed the Krishna river new irrigation scheme by Andhra Pradesh Government during a high level meeting.

According to Mr. Rao, the unilateral decision taken by the Andhra Pradesh Government is against the Andhra Pradesh State Reorganization Act.  K. Chandrashekar Rao said if needed, he would initiate a legal fight to stop the new scheme construction.

Mr. Rao directed the officials concerned to file a complaint against the A.P., Government decision in the Krishna Water Management Board.  

KCR said despite disputes and differences, Telangana extended a friendly hand to Andhra Pradesh and asked to use Krishna river waters for the benefit of farmers in both the Telugu states.

Mr. Rao said, “I have taken the initiative by saying there should not be any ego or water basin problems in utilizing the water.  It is very painful that despite this, the A.PGovernment declared a new scheme without even consulting with the Telangana state to lift water from Srisailam project unilaterally.”

The Telangana Government is soon going to approach the Supreme Court in the matter and file a complaint against the Andhra Pradesh Government.