RDS overhaul back on track

metro india news I hyderabad

Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy on Monday directed officials to expedite the modernization of the Rajolibanda Diversion Scheme (RDS) and ensure speedy implementation of Phase II of the Tummilla Lift Irrigation Scheme, stressing that Telangana's legitimate rights over Tungabhadra waters would be protected at all costs.

Chairing a high level review meeting at the State Secretariat, the Minister examined issues relating to RDS operations, Tungabhadra Dam management, interstate water sharing arrangements and long pending modernization requirements. Senior irrigation officials, engineers, water experts and representatives of farmers from the RDS command area participated in the meeting.

Farmer leaders led by former RDS Chairman G. Sitarami Reddy submitted a detailed representation highlighting the deteriorating condition of RDS headworks, declining storage in the Tungabhadra reservoir due to siltation, unauthorized diversions by neighbouring states and the urgent need to safeguard Telangana's rightful share of river waters. They also pointed to ageing infrastructure, reduced canal carrying capacity, damaged structures, sediment accumulation and water losses affecting irrigation supplies to farmers in the region.

Responding to the concerns, Uttam Kumar Reddy said modernization of the RDS could no longer be delayed and directed officials to prepare a comprehensive roadmap for completing pending works, strengthening embankments and improving canal efficiency in line with expert committee recommendations.

Reviewing the progress of Phase II of the Tummilla Lift Irrigation Scheme, the Minister instructed officials to prioritise land acquisition for the proposed Mallammakunta, 

Julakal and Vallur reservoirs, which are expected to create a gross storage capacity of about 2.12 TMC. He asked revenue authorities to engage with affected landowners and ensure fair compensation.

The Minister also emphasized the need for a stronger and more proactive role by Telangana's representatives on the Tungabhadra Board in monitoring reservoir operations, canal management and infrastructure maintenance to ensure equitable water distribution among basin states.

Issues relating to KC Canal releases, interstate coordination and implementation of tribunal awards were also reviewed. Uttam Kumar Reddy directed officials to prepare a comprehensive report on technical, legal and policy issues for submission to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.

Reiterating the government's commitment to farmers, the Minister said Telangana would continue discussions with Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and the Centre while firmly safeguarding the state's water rights and ensuring equitable utilization of Tungabhadra waters.