Telangana Aims for 152m Tummidihetti Barrage Approval from Maharashtra

Telangana's Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has directed irrigation officials to engage with the Maharashtra government regarding the proposed Tummidihetti barrage, which is planned to reach a height of 152 meters. This initiative aims to enhance water diversion capabilities and provide irrigation to approximately 200,000 acres in the undivided Adilabad district. Following Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's indication of willingness to discuss the matter post-October 23, Reddy has instructed his team to prepare comprehensive technical documentation to support their request.

During a review meeting held at the Bodhi Pavilion, CM Reddy was joined by key officials including Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka and Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy. The discussions focused on the contentious aspects of the Tummidihetti barrage as well as the Dindi and Achampet lift irrigation projects. Engineers presented data indicating that constructing the barrage at 152 meters would allow for significant water diversion to the Yellampalli project, although it would also lead to the submergence of around 2,300 acres of land, compared to less than 1,000 acres if built at 150 meters.

Reddy emphasized the importance of assessing the potential impact of submergence on Maharashtra's land while exploring construction options that maximize water diversion with minimal land loss. He also mandated the maintenance of records from previous meetings with Maharashtra under the Central Water Commission (CWC) to ensure transparency and prompt information sharing.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the Tummidihetti barrage is crucial for supplying irrigation water to the Adilabad district, which is characterized by extensive forests and a significant tribal population facing socio-economic challenges. He expressed optimism that constructive dialogue with Maharashtra could help alleviate the long-standing water scarcity issues in the region, benefiting the tribal communities under the motto “Jal, Jungle, Zameen” (Water, Forest, and Land).

Looking ahead, Reddy instructed irrigation engineers to prioritize the design of the water flow route from Tummidihetti to Yellampalli and to begin land acquisition processes once the barrage height is finalized. He noted that Maharashtra had previously agreed to a height of 148 meters, which he deemed insufficient for the required water volume. The meeting concluded with plans to prepare detailed technical reports on water availability and the extent of submergence to persuade Maharashtra to approve the 152-meter height, while also addressing the rising water demands of the Dindi and Achampet projects.