Revanth Reddy Presses Centre for Tummidihatti Barrage at 152m FRL, Urges MoJS to Convince Maharashtra

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on [date] urged Union Minister of Jal Shakti C.R. Patil to intervene and convince the Maharashtra government to agree to the construction of the Tummidihatti barrage at 152 metres Full Reservoir Level (FRL). The request was made during a meeting in New Delhi, where Reddy also sought the Minister's support for expediting Environmental Clearances (ECs) for three major irrigation projects: Palamuru-Rangareddy, Sita Rama, and Gouravelli.

The Tummidihatti barrage, a key component of the Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme, has been a longstanding point of contention between Telangana and Maharashtra. Telangana argues that the 152-metre FRL is essential to provide irrigation to drought-prone regions in Mahabubnagar and Rangareddy districts. Maharashtra, however, has raised concerns over submergence and water availability. The Palamuru-Rangareddy project alone aims to irrigate over 12 lakh acres and provide drinking water to several municipalities. The delay in ECs has stalled progress, prompting the Chief Minister's direct appeal to the Centre.

The outcome of this request is crucial for Telangana's agricultural economy and could set a precedent for interstate water cooperation. If Maharashtra concedes, it would mark a significant diplomatic win for Reddy's government. However, resistance from Maharashtra could escalate into a fresh legal battle, potentially involving the Supreme Court or the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal. The Ministry of Jal Shakti is expected to convene a joint meeting of both states to resolve the impasse. Global observers of federal water disputes will be watching closely, as India's approach to interstate river management often serves as a model for other federal democracies.