Cooperation among states and river interlinking are essential for ensuring water security and protecting farmers’ interests, said Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu. Addressing a public meeting after the inauguration of 33 new crest gates at the Tungabhadra Project in Hosapete of Karnataka today, the Chief Minister praised Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil for bringing together the governments of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana. He said the minister had not only united the three states but also initiated discussions on connecting rivers for the benefit of millions of people.

 

Mr. Naidu described the Tungabhadra Dam as a lifeline for farmers and a major source of drinking water for people in the region. Recalling the damage to the dam’s 19th gate in 2024, he said a stop-lock gate was installed to prevent water loss and that all 33 crest gates have now been restored through the joint efforts of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. He termed the meeting of the Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana under the leadership of C.R. Patil a historic occasion and said such cooperation would help safeguard the interests of farmers across the region. He expressed confidence that the meeting would be remembered as a landmark event in southern India’s water management efforts.