Telangana to launch six-month water conservation programme in 2027
Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy announced 355 categories of works to restore local water resources and support rural employment.
The Telangana government plans to execute a six-month water conservation initiative from January to June 2027, according to Urban Acres. Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy announced the programme during a review meeting in Hyderabad, noting it will cover every village.
The initiative aims to address the expected impact of El Nino conditions. Officials have identified 355 categories of works, focusing on restoring minor irrigation tanks, village ponds, canals, and feeder channels.
The programme will use the employment guarantee framework to mobilise villagers and agricultural labourers. The government stated that the current 60:40 funding model will receive extra state funds if necessary.
Proposed works include repairing damaged sluice gates and tank infrastructure, removing silt, and clearing vegetation to increase storage capacity. The plan also involves constructing check dams across small rivers and streams to aid groundwater recharge.
Minister Reddy called for an integrated approach involving the irrigation, panchayat raj, rural development, groundwater, and energy departments. He directed officials to study groundwater-recharge practices in Maharashtra and Rajasthan for potential replication in the state.
The irrigation and panchayat raj departments are tasked with preparing a comprehensive action plan before the next monsoon.