Hyderabad: In a significant move, the expert appraisal committee (EAC) of the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change directed the Andhra Pradesh govt to submit an undertaking confirming that no work beyond the preparation of the detailed project report for the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme (RLIS) has been carried out.
The EAC has also mandated that the site be restored to its pre-construction condition before applying for environmental clearance.
For the past five years, the Telangana govt has been working to halt the RLIS project, which involves the diversion of Krishna river waters by Andhra Pradesh. Telangana has raised objections at multiple levels, including with the ministry of jal shakti, ministry of environment, National Green Tribunal (NGT), Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal, and even in the Supreme Court. The state argues that the project threatens its legitimate access to Krishna waters.
The RLIS project was discussed during the 25th EAC virtual meeting on Feb 27, in accordance with an earlier order from the NGT. The committee recommended a modification of the terms of reference for granting environmental clearance.
The EAC specified that, when applying for environmental clearance, the project proponent must submit an affidavit from a competent authority confirming that no work beyond DPR preparation has been undertaken. The submission must also include a comprehensive site restoration report, with photographic evidence, restoration methods, and a timeline of actions taken.
The EAC warned that if any information provided is found to be false or misleading, the responsible parties would face legal action under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981, and the Environment Protection Act of 1986.
Irrigation minister, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, hailed the order as a victory for farmers in drought-prone areas of the Krishna basin. He had previously written to the Union minister of jal shakti urging against granting environmental clearance for the RLIS, citing violations of environmental laws and inter-state water-sharing norms.
Telangana maintains that the RLIS project is illegal as it diverts Krishna waters without the approval of the Krishna River Management Board or the apex council.
“Telangana will continue its determined legal and policy battle to safeguard its rightful share of Krishna river water and prevent unauthorised projects that could compromise its water security,” Uttam said.
