Maharashtra CM Considers Telangana's Request for Tummidihatti Barrage Height Increase

In a significant development for Telangana's water management plans, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed openness to reevaluate the state's proposal to increase the height of the Tummidihatti barrage. This decision emerged during a meeting on Monday between Fadnavis and Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy in Mumbai, where discussions centered around enhancing the barrage's height from the previously agreed 148 meters to 152 meters.

The proposed increase aims to better address the irrigation needs of Telangana, which officials argue are not sufficiently met by the current height. To facilitate this assessment, Fadnavis suggested forming a joint committee that would include officials from both states. This committee, led by the principal secretaries of the irrigation departments, will explore various factors such as water availability, potential submergence areas, agricultural impacts, and compensation for affected land before making a final decision.

Fadnavis acknowledged the importance of the proposal, stating that Maharashtra would be willing to support Telangana's water needs as long as the project does not negatively impact Maharashtra's interests. He emphasized the necessity of completing various technical, environmental, and administrative evaluations prior to reaching a conclusion. An independent study will be conducted to assess the feasibility of the increased barrage height, examining the site’s suitability and the extent of land that may be submerged.

The discussions signify a crucial step in Telangana's quest for enhanced water resources, especially since the previous agreement limited the barrage height to 148 meters, which officials claim restricts the state's ability to fully utilize its water share. During the meeting, Revanth Reddy and Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy presented detailed arguments supporting the need for a higher barrage, citing factors such as rising energy costs, environmental challenges, and the necessity for sustainable water management.

Looking ahead, Telangana has indicated its readiness to compensate farmers impacted by the project in accordance with Maharashtra's land acquisition policies. Additionally, Revanth Reddy extended an invitation to Fadnavis to attend the Invest Telangana Global Summit, scheduled for December 7-9, which aims to showcase investment opportunities in the region.