Krishna River Water‑Sharing Impasse (2026‑27)
The three‑member committee of the KRMB met in Hyderabad on 4 September 2026 but could not agree on the water‑sharing ratio for the fiscal year 2026‑27. Both Andhra Pradesh (AP) and Telangana (TG) stuck to their respective demands, leaving the board without a decision.
Key Developments
- AP insists on the ad‑hoc 66:34 (AP:TG) split that was first used in 2015‑16.
- Telangana demands an equal 50:50 share, a stance it has held since 2020.
- Both states have been accused of drawing water from the common Srisailam and Nagarjunasagar without board approval.
- AP unilaterally released water from the PRP‑HR and other lifts, while TG released water to the left canal on the same day.
- Both states have asked for 47 tmc ft each for drinking water needs until the end of October.
Important Facts
As of the morning of 4 September 2026, the tmc ft inflow in the basin was:
- 213.6 tmc ft in Srisailam (cumulative from 1 June).
- 93.1 tmc ft in Nagarjunasagar, including water released from Srisailam for hydro‑electric generation.
AP’s ENC K. Narasimha Murthy complained that TG’s release of water from Srisailam for hydel power, despite low demand, hampered AP’s drawal. TG’s ENC O.V. Ramesh Babu countered that AP had already taken large volumes via the PRP‑HR, Handri‑Neeva lifts, and KC Canal lifts.
Exam Relevance
The stalemate illustrates the complexities of inter‑state river‑water disputes, a recurring theme in GS 2 (Polity) and GS 3 (Economy). Understanding the legal framework (Inter‑State River Water Disputes Act, 1956) and the role of bodies like the KRMB is essential for answering questions on federalism, resource management, and sustainable development.
Way Forward
- Schedule a full‑scale meeting with the secretaries of both state governments and the KRMB chairman in the fourth week of September.
- Seek a temporary, data‑driven allocation based on actual inflows (213.6 tmc ft at Srisailam, 93.1 tmc ft at Nagarjunasagar) and drinking‑water priorities.
- Consider invoking the Inter‑State River Water Disputes Act for a judicial settlement if negotiations fail.
- Encourage both states to adopt water‑saving measures and coordinated hydro‑electric generation to minimise unilateral releases.
Until a consensus is reached, the basin will continue to face operational challenges, affecting irrigation, drinking water supply, and power generation for millions of citizens in both states.