YSRCP Leader Calls for People's Movement to Revive Rayalaseema Irrigation Project
In a significant political development, YSRCP state coordinator Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy has appealed to all political parties to unite and intensify the movement for the Rayalaseema lift irrigation project (RLIP). Speaking at a meeting in Vijayawada on Sunday, Reddy emphasized that this critical issue must transform into a widespread people's movement rather than remaining confined to political debates.
Allegations Against Chandrababu Naidu Government
Reddy launched a scathing criticism against Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, accusing him of making decisions that severely harm Andhra Pradesh's long-term interests, particularly in the crucial areas of water security and agricultural sustainability. The YSRCP leader highlighted what he described as a pattern of betrayal regarding vital irrigation projects.
"The Polavaram project construction had advanced to a height of 45.78 metres under our government," Reddy stated. "We secured substantial funds through persistent efforts despite receiving limited central support. In stark contrast, Chandrababu Naidu agreed to reduce the project height to 41 metres upon returning to power, yielding to central pressures without any meaningful resistance."
The Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project Controversy
Reddy explained that former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy had launched the Rayalaseema lift irrigation project specifically to address the chronic drought conditions plaguing the region. According to the YSRCP leader, the Naidu government deliberately stalled all construction work soon after assuming power, allegedly succumbing to pressure from political allies.
"The RLIP represents far more than just an irrigation initiative," Reddy emphasized. "This project serves as a vital lifeline for Rayalaseema, addressing critical drinking water needs and securing water resources for future generations. Its importance cannot be overstated for regional development and survival."
Immediate Demands and Strategic Plans
The YSRCP coordinator presented a series of urgent demands, including the immediate resumption of RLIP construction, legal action against neighboring states for allegedly illegal projects diverting Krishna River waters, and concerted efforts to halt unauthorized upstream developments that threaten Andhra Pradesh's water share.
Reddy further alleged that despite being a coalition partner at the central government level, Chief Minister Naidu failed to secure additional benefits for the state and instead permitted reductions to existing entitlements. The YSRCP leader criticized the current administration for abandoning ongoing projects in favor of reviving long-term, decades-old proposals that lack immediate viability.
Building a Widespread Awareness Campaign
The YSRCP has formulated comprehensive plans to build substantial public awareness around what they characterize as the "betrayal" by the Naidu government. The party intends to mobilize every village and household across Rayalaseema, engaging citizens in discussions about water rights and regional development.
"We will take this crucial campaign to colleges and universities to actively engage the youth," Reddy announced. "Former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will personally participate in the agitation at an appropriate time in the future to demonstrate our commitment to this cause."
Unified Strategy and Broader Appeal
Reddy revealed that prominent Rayalaseema leaders recently convened to develop a coordinated strategy, deciding to involve all political parties, public organizations, and concerned citizens in a large-scale agitation. The YSRCP leader framed the impending campaign as a collective defense of Rayalaseema's fundamental water rights and sustainable development.
"This transcends political boundaries and partisan interests," Reddy declared. "The protection of Rayalaseema's water resources represents a matter of regional survival and prosperity. We must all fight together to ensure future generations inherit a water-secure region."
The YSRCP's mobilization efforts signal escalating political tensions over water resource management in Andhra Pradesh, with the Rayalaseema lift irrigation project emerging as a central flashpoint in the ongoing debate about equitable development and environmental sustainability.
