Lokesh slams regional politics over A.P.’s Banakacherla project, questions double standards on water use  

Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh came down heavily on those stirring regional tensions over the Banakacherla project, accusing certain political groups of instigating water disputes for political gain.

Addressing a press conference here on Thursday, Mr. Lokesh said the State government will ensure that the Central Water Commission (CWC) will give its clearance for the Polavaram-Banakachalra project. “I shall write a letter to the CWC. We will see that the project gets all clearances,” he said.

The government has a clear vision that the water which is wastefully flowing into the sea should be utilised in a better way. ‘‘The project may not have waters in case of dry spells. In such cases, the project will be idle for a year or so. Why should we not use the surplus waters flowing into the sea during the remaining years?’‘ he asked.

Referring to the Kaleshwaram project in Telangana, he asked whether the necessary permissions were in place before the construction of the project. “If a project is constructed in a downstream State, what right does the upstream State have to object?” he questioned, referring to the ongoing inter-State disputes.

He resented the apparent double standards in water sharing between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. “If Andhra Pradesh uses water that enters its territory after flowing through Telangana, why is that wrong? One rule for A.P. and another for Telangana—is that justified?” he asked.

The Minister’s remarks come amid growing debate around water sharing and inter-State project permissions, with the Banakacherla project now at the centre of a broader political controversy.