Maharashtra proposes joint committee for Tummidihatti Barrage project with Telangana
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis suggested a committee of irrigation officials to examine the proposed barrage height and submergence implications.
The Maharashtra government has responded positively to a request from Telangana to build the Tummidihatti Barrage, provided the project does not negatively impact Maharashtra or its residents, according to Telangana Today.
A delegation including Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai on Monday to discuss the Pranahita river project.
Minister Reddy stated that the 2016 agreement for a 148-metre barrage height would not meet regional irrigation needs. He argued that a 152-metre height is the most viable solution to address energy, environmental, and sustainability challenges.
Reddy added that Telangana is prepared to compensate Maharashtra farmers for land lost to submergence following Maharashtra's land acquisition policies. He noted the goal is to develop backward regions and tribal communities.
Chief Minister Fadnavis said his government would support the project in the national interest if it does not harm Maharashtra. He noted that the Central Water Commission will continue its technical studies.
Fadnavis proposed forming a joint committee led by the Principal Secretaries of the irrigation departments from both states. This group will study water availability, submergence, and technical matters while working on a roadmap for future action.