Reiterating the commitment to ensure that every reservoir is filled and irrigation water reaches every acre, the Andhra Pradesh government has underlined the critical role of Water User Associations (WUAs) in achieving efficient and sustainable water management across the state.
Officials stated that Water User Associations were established with the objective of decentralising irrigation management and ensuring farmer participation in the equitable distribution and conservation of water resources.
Elections to Irrigation Bodies After Formation of Coalition Government
Soon after assuming office, the coalition government conducted elections to 6,047 Water User Associations, along with 267 Distributary Committees and 58 Project Committees.
Through this process, nearly 60,000 elected members became direct stakeholders in irrigation planning, canal maintenance and water regulation at the grassroots level.
Investment in Operation and Maintenance Works
During the current financial year, the government allocated ₹344 crore for irrigation-related Operation and Maintenance (O&M) works.
A total of 7,197 O&M works were undertaken through Water User Associations, enabling farmer-led execution and monitoring of irrigation infrastructure at the field level.
Role of Water User Associations on the Ground
According to officials, Water User Associations have been playing a decisive role in:
- Maintenance of field-level canals and distributaries
- Implementation of the warabandi (rotational water supply) system
- Collection of water taxes
- Resolution of disputes related to water sharing
The decentralised approach has improved accountability and reduced conflicts among farmers during peak irrigation seasons.
Focus on Groundwater Recharge and Long-Term Water Security
The government stated that Water User Associations are also being encouraged to focus on groundwater recharge and conservation measures.
Ensuring adequate water supply for irrigation, drinking purposes, and industrial needs without creating scarcity is a key objective of the current irrigation strategy.
State-Level Review Meeting in Amaravati
During a state-level meeting of Water User Associations held in Amaravati, participants reviewed irrigation performance and discussed future strategies.
The meeting concluded with a collective resolve to protect water resources, improve storage efficiency, and prepare irrigation systems to meet future demand arising from climate variability and agricultural expansion.
Call for Greater Responsibility
The government has called upon Water User Associations to play an even more proactive role in achieving water security, stressing that community participation is essential for sustainable irrigation management.
Officials emphasised that the success of irrigation reforms depends on transparent functioning, scientific planning, and active involvement of farmers at every level.
