In a recent address, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, the president of YSR Congress Party and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, criticized his predecessor N. Chandrababu Naidu for allegedly putting personal interests above the welfare of farmers in the Rayalaseema region. Highlighting the critical water levels of the Srisailam project, Jagan emphasized the dire need for the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme, referring to it as a lifeline for the drought-stricken areas of Rayalaseema and Nellore districts.
The current maximum water level at the Srisailam reservoir is 885 feet, but in order to ensure the transfer of water from the Pothireddypadu Head Regulator, a minimum level of 881 feet is necessary. Jagan pointed out that while Telangana utilizes around 8 TMC of water daily, Andhra Pradesh is only able to access 0.6 TMC, raising serious concerns about water availability in the region. He questioned when the water levels would rise to the required 881 feet and when the reservoirs beneath the Pothireddypadu Head Regulator would receive adequate water supply, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
During his speech, Jagan accused Chandrababu of making secret agreements with Telangana’s Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy, which he believes compromise the interests of Andhra Pradesh. He expressed disappointment that farmers in Rayalaseema, including those in Chittoor district, have not received the attention they deserve. Jagan’s comments suggest that the leadership has failed to prioritize the needs of the people, especially when it comes to water resources.
He criticized the lack of action from Chandrababu and the Minister of Water Resources regarding the vital Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme, stating that their inaction appears to endorse the secretive agreements made with Telangana. Jagan argued that Chandrababu’s decisions reflect a betrayal of the farmers’ trust, reminiscent of how he allegedly turned against his own benefactor, N.T. Rama Rao.
Highlighting the historical challenges faced by the region, Jagan explained that the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project is not a new concept but a necessary initiative designed to supply water to existing reservoirs that have been underutilized for decades. He noted that in the past 20 years, water allocation has only occurred a few times, and the current operational status of the Srisailam dam reflects a critical shortage that needs urgent redress. With climate patterns changing and rainfall becoming increasingly erratic, Jagan emphasized the need for proactive measures to secure water supplies for agriculture and drinking.
Jagan also addressed the emotional aspect of the debate, claiming that some politicians are manipulating sentiments to create discord between the people of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. He urged for unity and cooperation, asserting that all citizens are brothers and should work together for mutual benefit instead of fostering conflict over water resources.
In conclusion, Jagan Mohan Reddy reiterated that the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme is akin to an insurance policy for the drought-affected regions. He urged immediate action to begin the project, promising that if his party returns to power, it will prioritize the needs of farmers and ensure the completion of the irrigation scheme to secure the future of the region. The situation remains tense as the people await concrete actions from their leaders regarding water management and agricultural support.
