Telangana Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy Directs Officials on Water Management
In a series of high-level review meetings held on Sunday, Telangana's Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy issued comprehensive directives to officials, emphasizing the critical need for optimal water utilization across all major and medium irrigation projects in the state. The minister's instructions focused on ensuring adequate water supply for both agricultural and drinking purposes during the ongoing Rabi season.
Prioritizing Crop Irrigation and Drinking Water
Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy laid down two clear and urgent priorities for the irrigation department. First, he mandated that no standing crop should be allowed to dry up, with particular attention to Rabi crops in their final stages that require crucial wetting. Second, he emphasized the protection of remaining water reserves to meet drinking water needs across Telangana.
The minister specifically highlighted the situation under the Nagarjuna Sagar Left Canal, where standing crops across its extensive 6.3 lakh acre ayacut have already received irrigation support during this Rabi season. While much of the harvest operations are complete, the minister directed officials to provide necessary wetting wherever crops still require it without fail.
Comprehensive Desiltation Drive Announced
In a significant development, Uttam Kumar Reddy announced the launching of a comprehensive state-wide drive for desiltation and de-sedimentation of tanks and reservoirs. The minister insisted that all irrigation sources should be opened up for this crucial maintenance work, which will enhance water storage capacity and improve distribution efficiency.
Officials have been instructed to prepare proposals with preliminary feasibility data immediately for tanks and projects identified for desiltation. This initiative represents a proactive approach to water resource management ahead of the summer months when water scarcity typically intensifies.
Accountability and Decision-Making Framework
The minister made it unequivocally clear that chief engineers will bear direct responsibility for proper water utilization in their respective jurisdictions. He empowered all officials to exercise their initiative and make prompt on-ground decisions to address emerging water management challenges.
"Senior officials should take urgent measures to ensure Rabi crops in the last stage are extended the crucial wetting," Uttam Kumar Reddy emphasized during the meetings. He further directed that all tanks should be filled to meet drinking water requirements before the seasonal closure of canals.
Infrastructure Development and Rehabilitation
In addition to immediate water management concerns, the minister addressed several infrastructure projects. He directed officials to finalize the location for the Jurala bridge, with consensus emerging in favor of constructing a bridge-cum-small barrage with some storage capacity, according to the minister's office statement.
The review meetings also covered progress in investigations and studies entrusted to the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) for the rehabilitation of Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme. This indicates the government's commitment to maintaining and improving critical irrigation infrastructure across Telangana.
These comprehensive directives from Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy reflect the Telangana government's focused approach to water resource management, balancing immediate agricultural needs with long-term water security for the state's residents.
