The Telangana government has renewed its call for a more equitable water allocation from the Krishna Basin. This demand stems from the need for a fair distribution based on catchment area principles. The ongoing discussions highlight the complexities of water sharing between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh (AP).
Background of the Dispute
The water-sharing dispute arose following the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014. The Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal (KWDT) previously allocated water for the combined state. Telangana argues that its larger catchment area warrants a 71% share of the water. Currently, the ratio stands at 66:34 in favour of AP, which Telangana claims is unjust.
Krishna River Management Board Meeting
A recent meeting of the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) addressed critical issues. The meeting was chaired by KRMB Chairman Atul Jain and included officials from both states. Key topics included budget allocation, telemetry equipment installation, and dam safety at Srisailam and Nagarjunasagar. Telangana officials expressed dissatisfaction with the current water-sharing ratio.
Telemetry and Water Diversion Issues
Telangana has requested the installation of telemetry equipment at 11 strategic locations. This equipment will measure water diversion accurately, especially concerning AP’s plans to divert Godavari water. Monitoring is crucial to ensure fair usage of resources and to address concerns about AP’s water management practices.
Reactions from Andhra Pradesh
AP officials, including Engineer-in-Chief M. Venkateswara Rao, have opposed changes to the existing water-sharing ratio. They argue that the current arrangement was agreed upon for one year post-bifurcation. AP is expected to respond to the telemetry installation proposals after further discussions.
Future Steps and Adjudication
The KRMB Chairman stated that any increase in Telangana’s water share cannot occur until KWDT-II adjudicates the allocations. Until then, the existing water-sharing practice will remain in effect. This marks the ongoing need for a comprehensive resolution to the water-sharing dispute.
Implications for Agriculture and Development
Water allocation directly impacts agriculture and development in both states. Telangana’s demand for a higher share is driven by its agricultural needs and the desire for sustainable development. The outcome of these discussions will have long-term effects on the region’s economic stability.
Current Status of Water Sharing
As of now, the dispute remains unresolved. The Telangana government continues to advocate for a fair share based on catchment area principles. The KRMB’s deliberations and future adjudications will be critical in determining the water-sharing framework moving forward.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the implications of water-sharing disputes on regional development in India.
- Examine the role of the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal in resolving inter-state water disputes.
- Analyse the significance of telemetry systems in managing water resources effectively.
- Estimate the impact of water allocation policies on agricultural productivity in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically discuss the implications of water-sharing disputes on regional development in India.
- Water-sharing disputes can lead to economic instability by hindering agricultural productivity.
- Conflicts over water resources can escalate into political tensions between states, affecting governance.
- Disputes may result in inadequate infrastructure development, impacting access to irrigation and drinking water.
- Regional disparities in water allocation can exacerbate socio-economic inequalities among states.
- Effective resolution of disputes is crucial for sustainable development and cooperative federalism in India.
2. Examine the role of the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal in resolving inter-state water disputes.
- The Tribunal was established to adjudicate water-sharing agreements between states in the Krishna Basin.
- It provides a legal framework for addressing grievances and disputes over water allocation.
- The Tribunal’s decisions aim to ensure equitable distribution based on hydrological and geographical considerations.
- It plays important role in reducing conflicts and encouraging cooperation among states involved.
- Continued monitoring and potential re-evaluation of allocations are essential for long-term resolution.
3. Analyse the significance of telemetry systems in managing water resources effectively.
- Telemetry systems provide real-time data on water flow and usage, enhancing transparency in management.
- They help in monitoring water diversion, ensuring compliance with allocation agreements.
- Accurate measurements can inform better decision-making regarding resource distribution and conservation.
- Telemetry aids in identifying inefficiencies and potential areas for infrastructure improvements.
- Effective data collection supports conflict resolution by providing objective evidence in disputes.
4. Estimate the impact of water allocation policies on agricultural productivity in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
- Water allocation policies directly influence irrigation availability, crucial for crop yields in both states.
- Inadequate water supply can lead to reduced agricultural output and increased farmer distress.
- Higher allocation for Telangana could enhance its agricultural sustainability and economic growth.
- Policies that promote equitable water sharing can encourage cooperative agriculture practices between states.
- Long-term agricultural productivity is linked to effective water management and policy frameworks.
