Maharashtra and Karnataka also oppose Polavaram-Nallamala project: Telangana Minister
The Polavaram-Nallamala project opposed by Maharashtra and Karnataka too, Telangana Irrigation Minister said on Sunday, asserting that concerns over the project extend beyond Telangana. He said multiple States had raised objections citing environmental and water-sharing issues.
Addressing the media, the Minister said Maharashtra and Karnataka had officially expressed reservations about the project’s impact on river basins and forest regions. He added that the objections strengthen Telangana’s long-standing stand against the proposal.
The Minister stated that the Polavaram-Nallamala project opposed by Maharashtra and Karnataka too highlights the need for wider consultation among affected States. He said proceeding without consensus could lead to legal and ecological complications.
According to him, the project threatens sensitive forest areas in the Nallamala range. He warned that large-scale diversion of water could disturb ecological balance and affect wildlife habitats.
The Telangana government, he said, has already submitted representations to the Centre. It has urged the Union government to review approvals and ensure compliance with environmental laws.
He also stressed that inter-State river projects should follow transparent processes. Decisions, he said, must respect federal principles and safeguard the interests of all riparian States.
The Minister appealed to the Centre to facilitate dialogue among States. He said cooperative decision-making remains essential for sustainable water management and long-term regional stability.
