Telangana to Hold Full-Day Assembly Debate on Godavari Waters, Says CM Revanth Reddy
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has announced that a comprehensive one-day discussion on the utilization of Godavari river waters, related disputes, and irrigation project construction will be held during the ongoing Budget session of the State Legislative Assembly. Reiterating the government’s stand, he stated that Telangana’s rightful share in both the Godavari and Krishna river waters would be firmly protected.
The announcement came after the Chief Minister inspected the J. Chokka Rao Devadula Lift Irrigation Scheme (JCRDLIS) pump house in Kannayigudem mandal of Mulugu district. He interacted with engineers to understand the operational status and technical details of the project.
Review of Devadula Project Progress
Accompanied by Ministers Uttam Kumar Reddy, Dhanasari Anasuya (Seethakka), Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, CM Advisor Vem Narender Reddy, MPs, MLAs, and senior officials, the Chief Minister also examined the motors at the Devadula intake point before holding a detailed review meeting.
Speaking after the inspection, he said Telangana seeks a permanent resolution on water rights through structured planning and completion of irrigation projects. “We are mobilizing the necessary funds and moving forward with a planned approach to complete pending projects,” he said.
Dialogue Preferred, Legal Options Open
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that even complex inter-state water disputes can be resolved through dialogue. He confirmed that discussions with Andhra Pradesh are currently at a preliminary stage and clarified that Telangana has no reservations in pursuing negotiations.
If issues remain unresolved at the officials’ level or through bilateral discussions, the state would approach the Centre, River Management Boards, tribunals, or even the Supreme Court in a phased manner, he stated.
He urged stakeholders not to create unnecessary confusion over water rights and encouraged constructive criticism. Telangana, he emphasized, will safeguard its rights over net waters, surplus waters, and floodwaters.
Funding Constraints and Completion Timeline
Addressing financial challenges, the Chief Minister noted that the state faces a debt burden of ₹8.11 lakh crore, which has affected the pace of fund releases. However, he affirmed that the government is determined to complete all major irrigation projects within the next two years.
Officials have indicated that project cost estimates have escalated over time. The government plans to revise these estimates, secure Cabinet approval, and expedite completion without further delay.
Focus on Northern Telangana and Godavari Projects
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of completing projects on the Godavari river to make northern Telangana agriculturally prosperous. He remarked that had 967 TMC of water been fully utilized over the past decade, the state could have managed floodwaters and share allocations more effectively.
The Devadula project, initiated in 2001, continues to be under development after more than two decades. A comprehensive review will be conducted for all projects from Tummidihatti to Bhadrachalam to ensure timely execution.
Kaleshwaram Barrages Under Technical Review
Responding to criticism, the Chief Minister dismissed allegations that Telangana was facilitating water diversion to neighboring states. He proposed discussing the matter transparently in the Assembly and welcomed constructive suggestions from the Opposition.
He reiterated that the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages under the Kaleshwaram project are assets of the people of Telangana. Technical evaluations will examine whether there are sub-surface structural concerns to prevent any future risks. Restoration efforts will follow detailed analysis, he said.
Medaram Development Plans
The Chief Minister also referred to the recent Medaram Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara, describing it as a grand event comparable to the Kumbh Mela in scale. He stated that infrastructure improvements would continue so that devotees can visit the shrine year-round.
After the Budget session, he plans to revisit Medaram to review development works.
Assembly Discussion Expected to Clarify Policy Direction
With a dedicated day of discussion proposed in the Assembly, the government aims to present detailed data on water allocation, project status, funding mechanisms, and legal strategy. The debate is expected to provide clarity on Telangana’s long-term irrigation roadmap and inter-state coordination.
As water management remains central to agricultural sustainability and regional equity, the upcoming session may shape policy decisions that impact irrigation infrastructure and inter-state relations in the years ahead.
