Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president KT Rama Rao (KTR) has launched a scathing attack on the Congress-led state government over the water crisis in Telangana. He blamed the administrative failure of the government rather than seasonal conditions for the drought-like situation in the state. KTR alleged that thousands of TMC water of rivers was wasted due to lack of proper management of irrigation projects and pump houses.
In a post on social media platform X, KTR termed it a 'drought created by Congress'. He claimed that from June 1, 2026 till now, more than 750 TMC of Godavari and about 250 TMC of Krishna river water has flowed downstream due to the negligence of the state government.
Allegation of negligence in use of irrigation projects
KTR alleged that the state government did not properly utilize crucial lift irrigation projects to fill ponds, reservoirs and other water storage structures in rural areas.
He raised questions over Kannepalli and Devadula pumps not being used. Also, alleging non-operation of Palamuru-Rangareddy and KLI pumps, it said that this also resulted in wastage of Krishna river water.
According to the BRS leader, the government did not make an effective strategy in time to deal with the water crisis, while meteorological experts had warned about the possibility of El Nino since March.
Andhra Pradesh accused of diverting water
KTR alleged that neighboring Andhra Pradesh diverted water from Godavari and Krishna rivers to its own territories after water was released downstream from Telangana.
He claimed that Andhra Pradesh used Puttisima for Godavari water and Pothireddypadu and Veligonda tunnel for Krishna water. KTR also alleged that water was diverted towards Kuppam area.
However, these allegations have been made by the BRS leader. These claims have not been independently verified with available information.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy gave instructions to the officials
On the other hand, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy had held a meeting with senior officials on October 11 to review the possible impact of El Nino and the water crisis situation in the state. The meeting took place at his residence in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.
The Chief Minister directed the officials to assess the standing crops and take necessary steps to save the farmers from water shortage till the harvest is completed. He stressed on preventing water crisis from becoming serious in future and ensuring better use of every drop of water.
Revanth Reddy said that a special meeting will be held with ministers on the issue of impact of El Nino and lack of rain in the state. Important decisions will be taken after considering the situation in low rainfall areas, farmers' problems and immediate relief measures.
Drought like situation in 215 divisions, demand of Rs 20 thousand crore from the center
Amidst the drought like situation in about 215 mandals in the state, the Telangana government has passed a resolution in the Assembly demanding the Center to declare these areas as drought affected. The government has sought adequate financial assistance and a special package of Rs 20,000 crore for the affected areas.
The Chief Minister also directed the officials to appeal to the Center to provide employment for 50 days in addition to the stipulated 125 days under the Employment Guarantee Scheme. The state government has expressed readiness to cooperate in providing additional employment days.
The Chief Minister also said that if necessary, a decision on the formation of an all-party committee will be taken after discussion with the ministers.
Amidst the water crisis in Telangana, political debate has now intensified regarding the management of irrigation projects, relief to farmers and demand for financial assistance from the Centre. While BRS has raised questions over the functioning of the government, the state government is working with officials on review and relief measures to deal with the crisis.