Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Krishna River, rising in the Western Ghats and flowing through Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, is a vital water source for millions. However, its waters have been a source of inter-state conflict for over a century. The disputes stem from competing demands for irrigation, hydropower, and drinking water, exacerbated by fluctuating rainfall patterns and increasing water needs. Recent developments, including the formation of Telangana, have further complicated the issue, necessitating a reasoned examination of the historical trajectory and current status of the Krishna River water disputes.
Historical Background and Early Agreements
The seeds of the Krishna River dispute were sown during British rule. The first significant agreement was the 1918 Agreement between the then Bombay Presidency (Maharashtra) and Mysore (Karnataka). This agreement allocated specific quantities of water to each state, but it lacked a scientific basis and did not consider the needs of the lower riparian states – Hyderabad (now Telangana) and Madras (now Andhra Pradesh). This led to protests and demands for a revised allocation.
Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal (KWDT) – I (1969-1976)
In 1969, the Government of India constituted the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal (KWDT-I) under Justice R.S. Bachawat. The tribunal’s award, announced in 1976, allocated water based on the ‘available’ flow, considering 75% dependability. The allocation was as follows:
| State | Allocation (Million Acre Feet - MAF) |
|---|---|
| Maharashtra | 2.6 TMC |
| Karnataka | 7.56 TMC |
| Andhra Pradesh | 10.89 TMC |
| Hyderabad (Telangana) | 0.25 TMC |
However, this award was not fully accepted by all states, particularly Andhra Pradesh, which felt its needs were not adequately addressed. The award also didn’t address the issue of future projects.
Second Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal (KWDT – II) (2004-2011)
The second tribunal was constituted in 2004 to resolve the remaining issues and address the concerns raised by Andhra Pradesh. The KWDT-II, headed by Justice B.N. Srikrishna, considered the impact of new projects and the changing hydrological conditions. The tribunal’s award, announced in 2011, allocated additional water as follows:
| State | Additional Allocation (MAF) |
|---|---|
| Maharashtra | 0.44 TMC |
| Karnataka | 1.89 TMC |
| Andhra Pradesh | 0.81 TMC |
| Telangana | 0.19 TMC |
This award was also met with dissatisfaction, with Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh expressing concerns about the allocations. Karnataka argued that its share was insufficient for its irrigation projects, while Andhra Pradesh felt its needs were still not fully met.
The Telangana Factor and Recent Developments
The formation of Telangana in 2014 significantly altered the dynamics of the dispute. Telangana demanded a re-evaluation of the allocations, arguing that it was unfairly treated in the earlier awards. The state claimed that the KWDT awards did not adequately consider its water needs, particularly for irrigation in the newly formed state. The dispute intensified with Telangana constructing projects like the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, which Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh alleged violated the tribunal’s awards.
In 2021, the central government constituted the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) and the Krishna River Water Tribunal (KRWT) to oversee the implementation of the KWDT awards and resolve ongoing disputes. The KRMB is responsible for regulating water releases and monitoring the operation of projects, while the KRWT adjudicates disputes between the states. However, the effectiveness of these bodies remains a subject of debate.
Challenges and Potential Solutions
The Krishna River water dispute is characterized by several challenges, including:
- Data Scarcity: Lack of reliable hydrological data and conflicting assessments of water availability.
- Political Considerations: The dispute is often politicized, hindering objective decision-making.
- Inter-State Coordination: Lack of effective coordination and trust between the riparian states.
- Climate Change: Increasing frequency of droughts and floods due to climate change exacerbates the water stress.
Potential solutions include:
- Integrated River Basin Management: Adopting a holistic approach to water management, considering the entire river basin.
- Real-Time Data Sharing: Establishing a robust system for real-time data sharing and monitoring.
- Water Use Efficiency: Promoting water conservation and efficient irrigation techniques.
- Strengthening Institutional Mechanisms: Empowering the KRMB and KRWT with adequate resources and authority.
- Negotiated Settlement: Encouraging dialogue and negotiation between the states to reach a mutually acceptable solution.
Conclusion
The Krishna River water dispute is a complex issue with deep historical roots and significant socio-economic implications. While the KWDT awards have provided a framework for water allocation, they have failed to fully resolve the conflict. A sustainable solution requires a collaborative approach, based on scientific data, equitable allocation, and effective inter-state coordination. The future hinges on the willingness of the riparian states to prioritize long-term water security over short-term political gains, and a commitment to integrated river basin management in the face of growing water scarcity.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.