Telangana CM Revanth Reddy says inter-state water disputes with Andhra Pradesh should be resolved through dialogue, urging cooperation over Krishna river projects.

Hyderabad: Emphasising cooperation over confrontation, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has said his government prefers dialogue to settle inter-state water issues with Andhra Pradesh, instead of prolonged legal battles or political stand-offs.

Speaking at a public event on the outskirts of Hyderabad, the Chief Minister underlined that Telangana has no interest in friction with neighbouring states and is keen on finding permanent, mutually acceptable solutions. Without naming him directly, Reddy appealed to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to avoid objecting to Telangana’s irrigation projects on the Krishna river.

He pointed out that projects such as Palamuru–Ranga Reddy, Dindi and SLBC had their origins in the undivided Andhra Pradesh era, and argued that continued objections were slowing environmental and Central Water Commission clearances. These delays, he said, were affecting access to bank loans and central funding, ultimately straining the state’s finances.

Reddy stressed that water-sharing disputes are not political tools but livelihood issues tied to farmers, investors and regional growth. He also highlighted the need for inter-state cooperation beyond water, citing Telangana’s dependence on Andhra Pradesh ports and Andhra’s reliance on Hyderabad for broader economic development.

Analysis:
The Chief Minister’s conciliatory tone marks a shift from confrontation to negotiation, which could ease investor uncertainty around stalled irrigation projects. If sustained, regular dialogue between the two states may reduce delays caused by inter-state objections and help farmers see faster on-ground benefits. However, translating intent into outcomes will depend on consistent political engagement rather than episodic appeals.