Centre to call Telangana, Andhra CMs’ meet on Godavari-Banakacherla project

Godavari-Banakacherla Project 

The Godavari-Banakacherla (G-B) project is a proposed mega water project by the Andhra Pradesh government. Here’s what it means in simple terms:

What is it?

It is a river water diversion project. The idea is to take water from the Godavari River and bring it all the way to the Banakacherla head regulator, which is connected to the Penna river basin (in the drought-prone Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh).

How will it work?

• Water will be lifted and diverted from Polavaram (on the Godavari).

• It will travel through the Krishna river basin.

• Then it will reach Banakacherla, from where it enters the Penna basin.

• The aim is to move 200 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of water, mostly for irrigation and drinking in the Rayalaseema and southern AP districts.

Why is Telangana opposing it?

• Telangana says this project:

  • Does not have proper clearances (from GRMB, CWC, Apex Council).

  • Will harm Telangana farmers, as it reduces their share of Godavari water.

  • Telangana claims the Centre is supporting only AP projects, ignoring theirs.

What does Telangana want?

• Telangana wants the water to be diverted through a different route: the Ichampally to Nagarjuna Sagar link, as part of national river linking.

• They are also asking for funds and clearances for their own projects like the Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme.

The Godavari-Banakacherla project is about moving Godavari water to South Andhra, but Telangana fears this will cut into its water share and is demanding fair treatment and legal clearance as per the rules of the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014.