Increased security measures have been implemented at Sagar Dam due to escalating tensions between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana regarding water distribution.
Just prior to the Telangana elections, Andhra Pradesh assumed control of the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam and initiated the discharge of water, creating tensions between the two states. At approximately 2 am on Thursday, when most Telangana officials were occupied with the polls, around 700 Andhra police personnel entered the project and opened the right canal to release 500 cusecs of Krishna water per hour.
Andhra Pradesh state irrigation minister Ambati Rambabu shared a cryptic message on X on Thursday morning, stating, “We are releasing water from Nagarjunasagar right canal on Krishna river for drinking water purposes.” However, the minister later clarified that they had only utilized water rightfully belonging to the state as per the agreement between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
It appears that there is a dispute between the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana regarding the sharing of Krishna river water from the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. According to the provided information:
- Water Sharing Agreement: The states are referring to a water-sharing agreement where 66% of the Krishna water belongs to Andhra Pradesh, and 34% belongs to Telangana.
- Allegations by Telangana: Telangana Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari has alleged that armed policemen from Andhra Pradesh damaged CCTV cameras and released about 5,000 cusecs of water by opening the head regulators at Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. This action reportedly created law and order issues in Telangana.
- Response from Andhra Pradesh: Mr. Rambabu from Andhra Pradesh denies any violation of the water-sharing agreement. He claims that they have used only the water rightfully belonging to them and tried to open the canal in their own territory.
- Central Government Intervention: The central government, represented by Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, has proposed a resolution. Both states have agreed to revert to the release of Nagarjuna Sagar waters as of November 28. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will supervise the dam to ensure that both sides receive water according to the agreed-upon terms.
- Previous Incidents: There have been previous instances of tension between the two states over the sharing of water from Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. In 2015, there was a similar attempt by Andhra Police to access the dam, but it was prevented by Telangana security forces.
The situation seems to be complex, involving historical disagreements over water-sharing agreements and potential impacts on the water supply for millions of people. The central government’s intervention and the involvement of the CRPF aim to prevent further conflicts and ensure adherence to the agreed-upon terms. It’s important for both states to find a peaceful and equitable resolution to avoid disruptions and potential law and order issues.
