The BJP criticizes the state government. due to delay in Godavari basin projects

N. Ramchander Rao | Photo credit: SIDDHANT THAKUR

BJP Telangana unit president N. Ramchander Rao accused the state government of adopting a “frivolous attitude” towards planning and implementing irrigation projects in the Godavari basin and stressed the need to ensure optimum utilization of waters allocated to Telangana.

In a May 23 letter to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Mr. Rao said that Telangana is entitled to about 968 TMC of secured Godavari waters but continues to face underutilization due to delays in reviving and completing key irrigation projects. He criticized the government for the delay in rehabilitation measures related to the damaged dykes of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP).

“The Congress government did not complete the tests recommended by the NDSA on time, resulting in delay in the restoration of KLIP barrages and affecting the utilization of nearly 200 TMC of Godavari waters,” he said. He further flagged the alleged delay in the implementation of the Sita Rama Lift Irrigation Project in Khammam.

He claimed that the delay is depriving Telangana of utilizing 67 TMC of allotted waters. He also alleged that the state government failed to identify the command area properly, which delayed the approval of the Sammakka-Sarakka barrage. “The Central Water Commission (CWC) has granted hydrological clearance for the utilization of 47 TMC,” Mr. Rao said, claiming that the Union government had cleared several irrigation projects in Telangana after the formation of the state.

“Projects representing nearly 360 TMC of Godavari waters have received approval from the Centre,” said a BJP leader.

Regarding the proposed Godavari-Cauvery river interlinking project, he expressed concern over the reported discussions to change the alignment and location of the source from Icchampalli. “Any such changes could adversely affect the interests of Telangana and hinder the proper utilization of the state-secured Godavari waters,” he added.

Published – 24 May 2026 20:23 IST