Central Water Commission Seeks Details on Godavari-Banakacharla Project
The Central Water Commission (CWC) has stepped in to address concerns over the proposed Godavari-Banakacharla linkage project announced by Andhra Pradesh. This action follows a complaint filed by the Telangana government.
The CWC has written to the river management boards of Godavari and Krishna, as well as the Polavaram Project Authority. The project, estimated to cost ₹85,000 crore, plans to divert 2 tmcft of water from the Godavari River at the Polavaram project. This has brought up critical issues related to the sharing of Godavari water.
Andhra Pradesh intends to use the diverted water to meet both drinking water and irrigation needs in the Rayalaseema region and the coastal districts of Nellore and Prakasam. The state considers the project vital for improving water distribution and boosting irrigation facilities.
However, the proposed diversion has raised concerns among Telangana and other neighboring states that share the Godavari basin. They worry that the project might reduce their share of water resources.
Telangana has been particularly vocal about its objections. The state argues that its rightful entitlement to Godavari water could be threatened by the planned linkage project, which has heightened tensions over water-sharing agreements in the region.
