`Focus on your own irrigation goals’: Andhra CM Naidu dismisses Telangana’s objections on Godavari-Banakacherla project

Amaravati: Hardening stand on Godavari-Banakacherla project, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu dismissed Telangana objections, calling them “bereft of legal or logical foundation”.

He urged the neighbouring state to focus on its own irrigation goals instead of creating conflict.

No basis for objections, says Naidu

Speaking at a press conference in Amaravati, Naidu questioned the rationale behind Telangana’s resistance. “We are a lower riparian state. Our project complies with the AP Reorganisation Act, especially since it involves diverting water from the last stretch of the Godavari,” he said.

He added that the Godavari waters are already being shared by both states. “Except for Polavaram, most of the existing projects haven’t received full clearances either. Yet the usage continues, as it should, to avoid waste,” he pointed out.

Calls for constructive cooperation

Naidu called for an end to inter-state disputes over water sharing, suggesting instead that both states should work together and obtain legal clarity from the Centre if needed.

“Creating conflict benefits no one. Water disputes only mislead the public and delay development. Let Telangana build its projects. Who is stopping them?” he asked.

No objection to Telangana's projects

Clarifying his stance, Naidu said he had never opposed Telangana’s Kaleshwaram project or any of its river-linking initiatives. “I have always supported balanced development in both Telugu states. Our focus should be on progress, not on creating hurdles for each other,” he stated.

Appeal for joint progress

The Chief Minister also reiterated his vision for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to collaborate and emerge as leaders in river management and regional development. “Let’s utilise every drop of water and avoid letting it go to waste in the sea,” he said.