Water dispute flares at Nagarjunasagar as Andhra Pradesh and Telangana clash

The Nagarjunasagar reservoir, a critical water source for both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, has become a flashpoint in the inter-state water dispute as Andhra Pradesh intensified its unilateral water extraction, sources indicated. The move has triggered immediate tension between the two states, which share jurisdiction over the reservoir following Telangana's separation from Andhra Pradesh in 2014.

Telangana responded swiftly to the water withdrawal, initiating counter-measures to protect its allocated water share. The escalation underscores the ongoing friction between the neighbouring states over water allocation from shared water bodies, a contentious issue since their bifurcation.

The Nagarjunasagar reservoir remains governed by agreements that predate the states' separation, creating persistent disputes over water rights and distribution. Both states have repeatedly accused each other of violating established water-sharing protocols, with the issue requiring intervention from water management authorities and inter-state coordination mechanisms.

Officials from both states have not publicly clarified the exact quantum of water involved in the current dispute or the duration of the unilateral withdrawal. The incident highlights the need for renewed dialogue and enforcement of existing water-sharing agreements to prevent further escalation of tensions.