Telangana, which has been strongly opposing `unilateral’ decisions of the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB), allegedly favouring Andhra Pradesh, has showed compassionate attitude by conceding AP’s request for immediate release of 5 tmc water to meet its immediate needs. As a result, some 6,000 cusecs of water would be released with immediate effect into the Nagarjuna Sagar Right Canal.

The KRMB, which had its crucial meeting in Hyderabad last evening, allocated 15.5 tmc of water to Telangana and 18.5 tmc to AP for rest of the water year 2016-17. This includes provision for meeting drinking water needs of both the States till July next. Telangana deplores that it received only 115 tmc of water, against 245 tmc by AP till February 3.

As both the states were seen making their points in a positive way, the Board Chairman H K Haldar is hopeful that the modalities could be finalised by the next meeting. Telemetry systems would be installed at some 47 points in two phases. He said the five member Bajaj Committee, touring the two States from February 12, would take a decision on the diversion of water by AP from Godavari basin to Krishna basin.

Telangana, in fact, staked claim for the entire utilizable water available in Krishna River to meet its irrigation and drinking water needs for the season. It made it clear that it can no longer afford to forego its due share and the board should stop playing favourites in water allocation.

Telangana is insisting that the water from Krishna river has to be allocated between Telangana and AP on 299 tmc: 512 tmc (37%:63%) ratio as per the working arrangement that would be in effect till the final entitlement of both the States was finalised by the competent authority. The KRMB was also bound to ensure allocation, according to the working arrangement until an alternative agreement was put in place.