Situation could aggravate if rainfall remains deficient, says Irrigation Minister

Telangana's farmers have been advised to be cautious in crop planning due to a continuing rainfall deficit, according to Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy. Reddy warned on Thursday that the situation could worsen if there is a continued rainfall shortage during September and October. He emphasized that the forecast of deficient rainfall for the next two months should be taken into account when making agricultural and water management decisions.

The ongoing rainfall shortage has impacted water inflows into major reservoirs like Nagarjuna Sagar, making it crucial to manage the available water prudently. Reddy stated that the government aims to strike a balanced approach between meeting irrigation needs and ensuring a steady supply of drinking water. He highlighted the necessity for a dual strategy involving the enhancement of permanent irrigation infrastructure while simultaneously conserving and judiciously distributing the present water resources.

Reddy explained that El Niño, a global climatic phenomenon, affects the entire region, not just specific districts or states, and stressed the importance of understanding the broader climatic conditions and planning irrigation accordingly. He discussed the progress of the Mahatma Gandhi Muktyala Branch Canal Lift Irrigation Scheme during his review of irrigation works in Suryapet district.

This project aims to provide irrigation to approximately 53,000 acres in the Mattampalli, Mellacheruvu, and Chintalapalem mandals, benefiting around 19,297 families.