Telangana, Maharashtra signs historic irrigation pact

Putting an end to a four-decade old dispute, the Governments of Telangana and Maharashtra on Tuesday signed an agreement for sharing of Godavari River water and construction of five barrages.

The MoU, signed by the officials of both the States, was exchanged by Telangana and Maharashtra chief ministers K. Chandrasekhar Rao and Devendra Fadnavis respectively at an event held at Siyadari Guest House in Mumbai. Both the States have also decided to constitute an inter-State council to review the pending and new irrigation projects on Godavari River.

Speaking on the occasion, KCR described the agreement as historic and said that the Maharashtra has given its nod to Telangana not only for using Godavari River water, but also construction of barrages. He said that the pact would pave the way for an effective use of Godavari waters by both the states. "This is a historical day for both Telangana and Maharashtra as this is going to open up new ways of cooperation for the development of both the states," KCR said.

Thanking Maharashtra Chief Minister Fadnavis, KCR said that the pact would serve as an example for all the states to resolve water disputes between them. He said presently, nearly 2,000 to 4,000 TMC of Godavari water was going waste into the sea. With the signing of this agreement, the water could now be utilised effectively.

The barrages are coming up at Medigadda, Tummidi-Haiti on Pranahita, Chanakha-Korata on Penganga, Pinpahad and Rajapeta.

KCR also invited Fadnavis and Maharashtra officials to Hyderabad for the next meeting on the project. "You all will be treated to the most delicious Hyderabadi biryani," KCR said in a lighter vein.

Irrigation Minister T. Harish Rao, Chief Secretary Dr. Rajiv Sharma and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.