Nagarjuna Sagar is at the center of a growing conflict between Andhra Pradesh (AP) and Telangana over water distribution from the Nagarjuna Sagar Project. The dispute focuses on water releases into the project’s right canal. AP irrigation officials released water without the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB)‘s permission, prompting strong objections from Telangana. Telangana officials filed a formal complaint against AP for this unauthorized release. However, AP claims they had KRMB’s approval for the water release.
The reservoir at Nagarjuna Sagar currently holds water above 570 feet, necessitating releases for irrigation. Telangana argues that AP’s release into the right canal without prior notice or collaboration breaches established agreements set by KRMB. This has led to tensions, with Telangana seeking KRMB’s intervention for resolution.
This dispute is part of a larger issue of water sharing from the Krishna River basin, a vital resource for both states’ irrigation and drinking water covering over 2.3 million acres. The monsoon season impacts reservoir levels, affecting downstream water releases. Water management during the agricultural season is crucial, with the KRMB overseeing water distribution between the states. Telangana accuses AP of sidestepping KRMB’s regulatory framework, while AP maintains adherence to directives. The situation is dynamic, with all parties looking to KRMB for guidance on Telangana’s complaint.
This ongoing conflict highlights the need for cooperative discussions to manage the Krishna basin’s water resources effectively.
