Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has called for a rational and cooperative approach to inter-state Godavari river water sharing, emphasizing the need for dialogue over disputes. Addressing the media at a press conference in Amaravati, the Chief Minister questioned the logic behind politicizing the use of Godavari river water that would otherwise flow into the sea.

Naidu’s remarks come amid renewed tensions between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana over the diversion and utilization of Godavari river waters, and construction of Godavari-Banakacharla project. “Why make an issue out of water that is eventually draining into the sea?” Naidu asked. “Both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are drawing from the Godavari, and barring Banakacharla project, none of the ongoing projects in either state have full statutory approvals. This is not a time to fight; it’s a time to work together.”

Reiterating the need for constructive engagement, Naidu said, “Who gains from conflict? We have never waged a war with Telangana. There’s no benefit in fighting over Krishna waters, which are already scarce. We are only focusing on the Godavari waters, which are flowing into the sea, and can be utilised to fight drought.”

The Chief Minister also advocated for a pragmatic and decentralized approach to water management. “Let Andhra Pradesh and Telangana build projects as per their financial and technical capabilities. There’s no need for confrontation. All it takes is dialogue. Problems can be solved if we sit together and talk,” he said.

Highlighting the relative abundance of water in the Godavari basin, Naidu noted that the Krishna basin faces greater scarcity. “Let us accept the allocations from the upcoming tribunal and plan accordingly. I have never opposed the Kaleshwaram project. In fact, I support projects that benefit people, regardless of which state undertakes them.”