KWDT-II proceedings: Telangana highlights historical deprival

Senior counsel CS Vaidyanathan stresses need for a fair deal for the State ensuring equitable water allocation

Hyderabad: The historical neglect of irrigation facilities in Telangana, with a specific reference to Mahabubnagar district, was brought to the attention of the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal (KWDT-II) as part of its final proceedings on Tuesday. Highlighting the region’s plight, State’s senior counsel CS Vaidyanathan presented Telangana’s case, emphasising the need for due consideration and a fair deal for the State ensuring equitable water allocation.

He recalled the deprival the State was subjected to because of the stalled Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) project, which was proposed to utilise 150 TMC of water but remains unrealised despite being presented before KWDT-I. Addressing concerns over the issues coming in the way of the State project approvals, the counsel explained that several ongoing projects were initiated by the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh government and submitted to KWDT in 2006.

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He also noted that the Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (PRLIS) report was submitted to the Central Water Commission (CWC) for approval, but the matter remains sub judice. He insisted that the basin parameters and irrigation needs of the basin concerned would be of priority. The counsel highlighted the importance of in-basin irrigation projects, referencing the 2018 Cauvery Judgment.

He stressed that irrigation intensity should maximise benefits for farm families while adhering to a national perspective on water distribution.

The KWDT-II final arguments in New Delhi was chaired by Justice Brijesh Kumar and included members Justice Ram Mohan Reddy and Justice S Talapatra.

The proceedings will continue on Wednesday too as Telangana seeks a fair resolution.