Officials argue over water release to Andhra Pradesh

Hyderabad: A minor controversy that erupted over the quantum of water released from Nagarjunasagar Dam to the Right Branch canal of AP was resolved on Tuesday night with TS engineering officials agreeing to continue with the release of water which they had stopped abruptly in the morning.

As per the Krishna River Management Board decision, 17 tmc ft of water was to be released to Right Branch canal by the NS Dam officials from the dam that is under their control.

On Tuesday morning, officials stopped water release, stating they have fulfilled the board direction.

However, AP engineering officials from Right Branch canal reached the dam and insisted on further release, stating they did not get the quantum ordered by the KRMB. They said that they received only 13 tmc ft against the 17 tmc ft.

The “standoff” continued through the day, with both the sides refusing to budge from their position.

Finally, late on Tuesday evening, the TS officials agreed to release the water, but not before telling the AP officials that they will deduct the same in the future releases under AP quota.

The issue has been brought to the notice of KRMB member-secretary Sameer Chatterjee.