Telangana is set to initiate talks with Maharashtra regarding the Tummidihatti barrage construction on the Pranahita River, a tributary of the Godavari. The decision follows recent concerns raised by Telangana officials about the barrage potentially impacting water flow to downstream areas in Telangana, specifically affecting irrigation projects like the Sriram Sagar Project (SRSP).
The core issue revolves around the height of the barrage. Telangana alleges that Maharashtra has increased the barrage’s height without prior consultation, violating agreements reached during the formation of Telangana in 2014. These agreements stipulated that no new projects should be taken up without mutual consent. Telangana fears the increased height will reduce water availability in the SRSP, jeopardizing irrigation for a significant area of land.
Telangana’s Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy stated the state government will soon formally request talks with Maharashtra. He emphasized the need for a joint inspection of the barrage site to assess the impact and find a mutually agreeable solution. The state government is prepared to pursue legal recourse if a resolution isn’t reached through negotiations.
Previously, in 2021, a similar attempt at dialogue failed to yield results. The current initiative is being driven by renewed concerns following reports of Maharashtra accelerating the barrage construction. Telangana officials claim Maharashtra hasn’t shared detailed project reports or conducted a comprehensive impact assessment.
The SRSP is a crucial irrigation project for Telangana, serving multiple districts. Reduced water inflow due to the Tummidihatti barrage could severely affect agricultural output and livelihoods dependent on the project. Telangana is seeking assurances from Maharashtra that the barrage’s operation will not adversely affect water supply to the SRSP and other downstream projects. The upcoming talks are considered critical to resolving the inter-state water dispute and ensuring equitable water sharing between the two states.
