Telangana Government Optimises Water Usage for Agriculture and Drinking
In a move aimed at optimising the use of limited water resources during the rabi (yasangi) season, Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy has directed officials to implement an equitable and efficient water distribution plan for farmers, focusing on both agricultural and drinking water needs. The directive centres around the water distribution from the Sriram Sagar Project (SRSP) and aims to ensure that water resources are allocated in a manner that benefits both the farming community and urban residents.
According to the officials, a regulated water supply system, referred to as the ‘on’ and ‘off’ schedule, will be put in place to maximise water utilisation during the rabi season. For areas above the lower middle drains (LMDs), the system will operate on a seven-day ‘on’ and seven-day ‘off’ schedule in Zone I, while Zone II will follow an eight-day ‘on’ and seven-day ‘off’ rotation. This planned distribution, which began on December 25, 2024, will continue until April 8, 2025. By balancing the availability of water with agricultural demands, the system intends to conserve resources and avoid wasteful practices, especially with the ongoing concern of evaporation losses.
On the other hand, for areas below the LMDs, water distribution commenced earlier in the year, with supplies starting on January 1 for Zone II and January 9 for Zone I. These distributions are scheduled to conclude on March 31, 2025, aligning with the end of the rabi season. In crafting this comprehensive allocation strategy, the Telangana government has prioritised essential sectors, including agriculture, drinking water, and industrial needs, ensuring that all sectors are adequately serviced without compromising the region’s ecological sustainability.
The overarching objective of the water distribution plan is to ensure fair access for both rural farmers and urban residents, as well as industry, particularly in areas that depend on consistent irrigation and drinking water supply for daily activities. The system recognises the growing pressure on water resources in Telangana, especially during the dry months of the rabi season, and strives to balance agricultural needs with those of the urban population. The careful implementation of this strategy is especially critical as the state faces unpredictable weather patterns and increasing water scarcity due to climate change. The successful execution of such a plan could be a model for other regions grappling with similar challenges.
From a sustainability perspective, this strategic water management plan takes into account both short-term and long-term environmental concerns. By controlling water usage with the ‘on’ and ‘off’ schedule, the government is taking a proactive stance to prevent water wastage and mitigate potential ecological damage. Additionally, such measures can help conserve the region’s water reserves, ensuring the availability of this vital resource for future agricultural cycles and urban needs. The careful management of water, especially in the context of climate change, will play a pivotal role in ensuring the region’s long-term agricultural viability and sustainability.
