Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project Sparks Inter-State Tensions

The Centre announced that construction on the Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project has not started, despite Telangana's opposition. The project, part of a broader river interlinking effort, is under assessment by the Central Water Commission. A preliminary feasibility report has been submitted by Andhra Pradesh.

The Centre clarified on Monday that construction of the contentious Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project has not started, despite ongoing opposition from the Telangana government. This announcement came during a Rajya Sabha session.

Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Raj Bhushan Choudhary, emphasized that the Government of Andhra Pradesh has only provided a Preliminary Feasibility Report so far. He stated, "As informed by the GoAP, work on the Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project has not commenced."

The project has raised significant concerns between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, primarily over its potential impact on water sharing. Although the Centre has not issued a stop work order due to Telangana's objections, a techno-economic appraisal is ongoing, involving the Central Water Commission and relevant authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)