Why CM silent on AP's Godavari-Banakacherla project, asks Harish
Hyderabad: Senior BRS leader T
Harish Rao
raised objections to the Godavari-Banakacherla link project proposed by Andhra Pradesh. Addressing the media here on Sunday, the former minister accused the govt of the neighbouring state of proceeding with the project without obtaining the necessary approvals.
The BRS leader said he had expected chief minister Revanth to raise the issue during the Niti Aayog meeting. However, he remained mum before the Prime Minister, he said.
Stating that an interstate agreement must be reached with all riparian states, he said that clearances from Central Water Commission and environmental authorities are mandatory. He questioned how the Godavari-Banakacherla project could be initiated without adhering to these regulations.
He alleged that the Central govt was hastily pushing the project and issuing tenders overnight.
"Chief minister A Revanth Reddy, who claimed that injustice was meted out to Telangana in the Union Budget, is now silent," Harish said, adding, that those unable to safeguard the interests of the state should reflect on whether they are fit to hold their positions.
Harish Rao also questioned the silence of Congress and BJP MPs while water from the state is being diverted.
He pointed out that funds for the Musi beautification project have not yet been received and the status of the Metro Rail project phase-II remains uncertain.
He questioned why the Central govt granted national project status to Polavaram but has not extended the same to Kaleswaram or any other project in Telangana. He questioned whether the Central govt, which is providing financial support of up to Rs 60,000 crore for projects in Andhra Pradesh, has even allocated even a single rupee to projects in Telangana.
"Water flows downstream only because Telangana is unable to utilise it. If the state were to use the water, it would not reach the sea," he said and questioned the silence of Union ministers Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay on the issue.
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