Telangana has formally submitted a demand to the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal-II (KWDT-II) for a revised allocation of 763 thousand million cubic feet (TMCft) of Krishna river water. This claim is based on the state’s share of the water allocated to the erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh.
- Key Components of Telangana’s Claim:
- 555 TMCft from 75% dependable flows
- 43 TMCft from 65% dependable flows
- 120 TMCft from average annual flows
- 45 TMCft from Godavari diversions
These figures total 763 TMCft, which Telangana asserts is approximately 70% of the total Krishna water allocated to the united Andhra Pradesh. The state also seeks the liberty to utilize any surplus water beyond average flows.
Basis for the Claim:
Telangana’s demand is grounded in principles of equitable water sharing, considering factors such as:
- Catchment Area: The extent of land area that drains into the Krishna river.
- Population: The number of people dependent on Krishna water.
- Drought Incidence: Frequency and severity of droughts affecting the region.
- Cultivable Land: The area of land suitable for agriculture that relies on Krishna water.
These parameters are internationally recognized for fair water distribution.
Concerns Raised by Telangana:
- Upstream Diversions: The state accuses Andhra Pradesh of diverting Krishna water outside the basin, particularly through projects like Pothireddypadu and Rayalaseema lifts, which allegedly reduce the water available for Telangana’s irrigation needs.
- Previous Allocations: Telangana criticizes the earlier BRS government’s agreement to a lower share of 299 TMCft, viewing it as a compromise that failed to protect the state’s water rights.
- Karnataka’s Almatti Dam Proposal: The state opposes Karnataka’s plan to raise the Almatti dam height, fearing it would further restrict water flow to Telangana.
Political Dynamics:
The demand has sparked internal debates within Telangana’s leadership. While Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy advocates for the 763 TMCft claim, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has suggested a higher allocation of 904 TMCft, leading to discussions about the state’s rightful share.
Conclusion:
Telangana’s formal claim to 763 TMCft of Krishna water represents a significant step in asserting its rights over river resources. The outcome of the KWDT-II hearings will be crucial in determining the state’s water allocation and addressing longstanding disputes with neighboring states.
