As has emerged in recent news, the ongoing conflict over the distribution of Vamsadhara river waters between the states of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha steps towards resolution. To reach a consensus on this issue, the Chief Ministers of both Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are reportedly in conversation. The crux of the matter lies in Andhra Pradesh’s proposal to construct the Neradi bridge across the Vamsadhara river, a project that requires the green light from Odisha.
Andhra Pradesh’s Aspirations and Key Points
In addition to the construction of the Neradi bridge, the state of Andhra Pradesh is also keen on accomplishing other crucial water-related projects. A critical one being the linking of its Nagavali river with the Vamsadhara. The state further aims to expand the Madduvalasa Reservoir, which is a medium-sized Irrigation Project featuring a reservoir straddling the Suvarnamukhi river, a tributary of the Nagavali river.
Primarily agricultural, the areas bordering these rivers rely heavily on irrigation projects, considering agriculture as their main economic activity. Given the lack of quick industrialization in this region, there is an urgent requirement to strengthen irrigation networks, thereby making agriculture a sustainable profession.
Initial Grievances and Background
The dispute over the waters of the Vamsadhara river has quite a history. In February 2006, Odisha lodged a complaint with the Central Government under Section 3 of the Inter-State River Water Disputes (ISRWD) Act, 1956 concerning its water disputes with Andhra Pradesh, particularly those revolving around the inter-state Vamsadhara River. Odisha sought the formation of an Inter-State Water Disputes Tribunal for arbitration.
Odisha’s Concerns
Odisha’s grievances largely revolve around Andhra Pradesh’s intent to construct a flood flow canal at Katragada. The state argues that this project may lead to the existing river bed’s drying up, resulting in the shifting of the river and consequent disruption of the groundwater table.
Moreover, Odisha critiqued Andhra Pradesh for not complying with terms of the inter-state agreement about the use, distribution, and control of the Vamsadhara river waters and its valley. Odisha has also raised concerns over the scientific assessment of water availability in Vamsadhara at Katragada and Gotta Barrage, Andhra Pradesh, and how the available water should be shared.
Vamsadhara River: An Overview
Originating from the Kalahandi district in Odisha, the Vamsadhara river flows within the boundaries of Odisha, before flowing into Andhra Pradesh, and finally discharging into the Bay of Bengal at Kalingapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The river is of immense importance to the northeastern Andhra region, with the Boddepalli Rajagopala Rao Project being constructed on it to meet the region’s irrigation needs.
