Etala Rajender slams Revanth Reddy over Kaleshwaram remarks

BJP MP Etala Rajender criticised Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's remarks on the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme, saying the project should be viewed as an integrated irrigation system. He urged the government to safeguard Telangana's long-term irrigation interests and farmers.

Hyderabad: BJP MP Etala Rajender strongly criticised Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy for his remarks on the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme, alleging that the Congress government lacked a proper understanding of the project’s scale and significance. He termed Revanth Reddy’s remarks irresponsible and said they undermined the interests of Telangana farmers.

Addressing a press conference here on Friday, Rajender said Kaleshwaram should not be viewed solely through the Medigadda barrage, but as an integrated irrigation system comprising multiple barrages, reservoirs, canals, an extensive pipeline network, underground tunnels and high-capacity pumping stations.

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He took exception to allegations that the entire expenditure of around Rs. 1 lakh crore on the project had been looted. He said such statements ignored the infrastructure created on the ground and undermined the interests of Telangana farmers.

The BJP MP said political criticism should not come at the cost of the State’s long-term irrigation interests. He warned that he would strongly oppose any attempt to jeopardise Telangana’s interests for political reasons.

Referring to the Medigadda barrage, he said if technical issues prevented water storage there, the government should avoid impounding water at the structure. However, he stressed that river water should still be lifted through the available pumping infrastructure instead of allowing it to flow downstream unused.

Clarifying that his remarks were not aimed at defending any political party, Rajender said his criticism was directed at the government, which was responsible for ensuring that the irrigation project served its intended purpose and benefited farmers.