Naidu Calls for River Linking
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has called for stronger inter-state cooperation and efficient water resource management, stressing that river-linking projects are essential for the welfare of farmers and the country's long-term water security. He made the remarks after inaugurating the new crest gates of the Tungabhadra project at Hospet in Karnataka, alongside Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Union Minister C.R. Patil.
Naidu said that although states have different boundaries, the nation remains one, and governments must work together to safeguard farmers' interests. He noted that the Tungabhadra Dam has been a lifeline, providing irrigation and drinking water to Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka.
Recalling the damage caused to one of the dam gates in August 2024, he said Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka jointly restored the project by installing 33 new crest gates at a cost of ₹51 crore. He appreciated the coordinated efforts that strengthened the dam and prevented water loss.
Highlighting the importance of river interlinking, Naidu referred to the Ken–Betwa project and proposed a Godavari–Cauvery river link to benefit southern states. He also urged states to complete intra-state river-linking projects first and emphasised prudent water use amid declining reservoir inflows caused by El Niño conditions.
